RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026 in Germany | Fully Funded for Journalists

If you’re a journalist reporting from a crisis zone, you already know how risky the digital world has become. From surveillance and hacking to doxing and impersonation, these threats are part of daily work. Often, without proper digital security training or global support.

At the same time, the demand for independent journalism is increasing worldwide. According to global media reports, journalists covering corruption, migration, climate change, and human rights are among the most targeted professionals online. But the real issue is that digital attacks on journalists have increased sharply in recent years, making digital self-defense a critical skill, not a luxury.

In this article, I am going to explain how the RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026 in Germany can become a life-changing opportunity for you. This is offered by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany. This fully funded fellowship allows journalists from war zones and crisis areas to step away from daily risks and receive high-level digital security training in Berlin.

So I am suggesting this fellowship because, beyond safety, it helps journalists grow professionally. Also, it helps to build international networks and return home stronger, safer, and more confident.

About the RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026

The RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026 is a six-month, fully funded fellowship designed specifically for journalists exposed to digital threats. The program is organized by Reporters Without Borders Germany.

It is a globally respected organization working to protect press freedom worldwide. This fellowship focuses on digital security, resilience, and self-defense for journalists. For this fellowship, selected fellows live in Berlin while undergoing hands-on training led by top digital security experts.

The program is funded by the Berlin Senate Department for Economics, Energy, and Public Enterprises, ensuring full financial support for participants.

This fellowship is unique in its long-term impact. Fellows learn how to protect themselves in the digital space. They also create training programs to teach these skills to journalists in their home countries, spreading the impact beyond Berlin.

Keep an eye on the quick table below to know all the information in short –

Also Read: ICANN Fellowship Program in Spain 2026 | Fully Funded | Apply Now

Eligibility Criteria of the RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026

• Professional journalists, media workers, bloggers, and reporters facing digital threats in their home countries can apply for the RSF Germany Fellowship 2026.
• You must have strong motivation to learn digital security for personal and source protection.
• Applicants who have experienced online violence such as hacking, doxing, or impersonation are welcome.
• Applicants must be willing to return to their home country after completing the fellowship.
• Some experience in teaching, mentoring, or knowledge transfer is preferred.
• They must be able to fully participate in all activities of the 2026 RSF Berlin Fellowship in Germany.
• A strong command of English is required.
• Applicants must have sufficient professional journalism experience.
• Applicants should also be willing to share the knowledge gained during the fellowship with colleagues in their home country and have some teaching or knowledge-sharing experience.

Important Dates

Key Features of RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026

• Fellows receive hands-on training in digital security and digital self-defence.
• They take part in individual risk assessments and detailed threat analysis.
• Fellows attend workshops focused on safety and resilience in sensitive reporting.
• They receive psychosocial support tailored to the specific needs of journalists.
• The program teaches effective protection against surveillance, hacking, and cyberattacks.
• They also engage with German civil society organizations and policy stakeholders.
• The fellowship encourages peer-to-peer learning with journalists from around the world.
• Participants build professional networks with German media professionals and newsrooms.

In the second phase of the fellowship, participants design their own digital security training programs, preparing them to act as trainers in their home countries.

Why Should You Choose This Program?

The RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026 stands out because it focuses on real-world risks journalists face today. This program offers:

• You will get full financial support with no cost burden
• You will get practical, expert-led training rather than theory alone
• International exposure and global media networking
• Long-term impact through knowledge transfer
• A safe environment to recover, learn, and grow

For journalists working under pressure, this fellowship is not just training. It is protection, empowerment, and professional renewal.

Career Opportunities and Impact after this Opportunity

While the RSF Berlin Fellowship is not a job program, it significantly strengthens career growth and credibility.

Career Benefits After Completion

• It enhanced my reputation as a digitally secure journalist
• It gives opportunities to become a digital security trainer
• Higher trust from international media organizations
• Improved safety for investigative and sensitive reporting

Journalism Salary Insights (Average Estimates)

Special Benefits for RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026

• Fellows receive a monthly stipend of €1,000 to cover living expenses.
• Free accommodation is provided in Berlin for the duration of the fellowship.
• The program includes full travel health insurance coverage.
• Fellows get free access to public transportation in Berlin.
• Visa support and assistance are provided throughout the process.
• Participants have access to a co-working space in a Berlin media hub.
• They benefit from guidance by top mentors and professional trainers.
• The fellowship supports travel to journalism conferences and networking events.
• Fellows also take part in cultural, social, and tourist activities in Germany.

Also Read: Rockefeller University Summer Fellowship 2026 in USA 

How to Apply for the RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026

Follow these steps to apply successfully:

• Visit the official RSF Germany application page
• Register using your email address
• Receive the application link by email
• Complete the online application form carefully
• Upload all required documents as separate PDFs
• Submit your application before the deadline

Required Documents of RSF Berlin Fellowship Program 2026

• Completed and signed the application form
• CV
• Passport
• Reference contacts

FAQs