The Berlin Fellowship Program 2025 offers exceptional international researchers the opportunity to work and study in Berlin, Germany. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany is calling for applications for its Berlin Fellowship Program for Digital Security for Journalists. RSF will invite six journalists from crisis areas to Berlin for six months (May 2025 until the end of October 2025). The Berlin Fellowship Program is funded by the Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Public Enterprises. It is a fully funded paid internship program
The goal of the Senate Department for Economics, Energy, and Public Enterprises is to secure Berlin’s recent leading position and to make it a global hub. 12 so-called centers of the future, local innovation parks for smart industries, are currently being developed. Through the Berlin Fellowship Program, participants engage in interdisciplinary research, exchange ideas with experts, and contribute to projects that address global challenges. This program promotes collaboration across fields in a vibrant academic and cultural setting. Application Deadline: November 25th, 2024 (check the official link for confirmation).
University/Institution
- Funded By: Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Public Enterprises
- Host Organization: Reporters Without Borders Germany
- Place: Berlin, Germany
- Programs: Digital Security for Journalists.
- Duration: 6 months (May 2025 until the end of October 2025).
Topics of the training program for digital self-defense
The main topics of the program will be
- Holistic security basics for journalists, bloggers, media professionals and citizen journalists at risk
- Operational security including risk assessments and security planning
- Online identity management for investigative journalists, including technical background and practical use of anonymization tools
- Secure online communication concepts, technology, and tools, including secure online conferencing for interviews
- Password and account security and data protection on social media and other online accounts for media work
- Device security for computers and mobile phones of journalists.
- Website security for media websites under attack
- Secure online and offline data storage including encryption for media files
- Online information verification and Open Source Intelligence
- Digital violence
Berlin Fellowship Program Benefits
- Monthly stipend: Grant a monthly allowance of 1000€/month
- Health insurance contribution
- Public transportation in Berlin.
- Visa Related Cost
- Travel costs
- Accommodation: Provide and pay for an apartment in Berlin for the duration of the fellowship
- Opportunities to network with experts and participate in conferences
- During their stay in Berlin, fellowship holders will gain insight into the work of Reporters Without Borders Germany, a global journalism and human rights organization.
Fellowship Eligibilities
- Are able and willing to fully participate in the program: Please plan with about 20 to 25 hours per week during the training period.
- Must show a strong interest in learning in-depth about digital security for journalists. A high level of proficiency in regards to digital security is not required.
- Proficiency in English : A strong command of English is essential since the entire fellowship program will be conducted in English.
- Must have adequate experience working as a journalist, be it as a professional journalist or as a citizen journalist
- Are able and willing to fully participate in the program
- Preference will be given to investigative journalists covering topics like the climate crisis, corruption, labor rights, or migration.
Required Documents
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport
- Work Experience
- Letters of recommendation (usually two)
- Proof of language proficiency (English or German, if required)
Application Process
- If you want to apply for the Berlin Fellowship Program, please fill out this form and upload the required documents here:
https://forms.projectresources.org/index.php/772292?lang=en
Tips for Successful Application
- Develop a clear, innovative research proposal aligned with Berlin’s research interests.
- Emphasize interdisciplinary skills and how your research will benefit from Berlin’s resources.
- Highlight any prior achievements and contributions to your field.
- Obtain strong, personalized recommendation letters.
- Proofread application materials thoroughly.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
- Rent: €400-€700
- Food: €200-€300
- Health insurance: ~€100
- Transportation: €80-€100
- Miscellaneous: €100-€150 Average monthly living expenses: €900-€1,200
Why Choose This Fellowship?
This fellowship offers researchers the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Berlin’s dynamic academic environment, collaborate on innovative projects, and expand their professional network in Europe. Berlin’s vibrant culture and interdisciplinary resources are ideal for intellectual growth.
Join our Telegram Channel For Every Scholarship Updates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is German language proficiency required for the fellowship? No, but some programs may have specific language requirements. Check the fellowship description for details.
- Are family members eligible for any support? No additional financial support is provided for dependents.
- What types of research proposals are prioritized? Proposals with interdisciplinary approaches that address global challenges tend to be prioritized.
- Can I extend the fellowship if needed? Extensions are uncommon and typically depend on available funding and the research project’s progress.
- Is there an age limit for applicants? There is generally no age limit, but candidates should be at early career stages.