Description

Are you a journalist facing digital threats or operating in high-risk areas? The 2025 Berlin Fellowship Program by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany offers a unique opportunity to enhance your digital security skills while gaining valuable international experience. This six-month fellowship, running from May to October 2025, aims to empower journalists by providing training in digital self-defense and fostering a supportive global network.

Why Apply for the Berlin Fellowship Program?

The Berlin Fellowship Program is more than just a training opportunity—it's a comprehensive support package for journalists who are navigating the challenges of working in crisis areas. Key benefits include:

• Specialized Training: A robust training program on digital security tailored for journalists, bloggers, and media professionals.
• Fully Funded Experience: RSF covers travel expenses, visa assistance, accommodation, public transport, health insurance, and provides a €1,000 monthly allowance.
• Professional Networking: Exclusive access to German journalists, human rights advocates, and civil society organizations.
• Global Advocacy: Become a multiplier for digital security in your home region, sharing vital knowledge with your peers.

Who Can Apply?

The program is designed for professional journalists, bloggers, and media professionals who:

• Face digital threats like surveillance, hacking, or doxing.
• Aim to improve digital security and safeguard their sources.
• Are committed to knowledge sharing and have experience in teaching or mentoring.
• Are willing to fully participate in all program activities (20-25 hours weekly).

Degree Level

RSF Germany Berlin Fellowship Program 2025 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Germany Universities.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

• Journalism

What Will You Learn?

The fellowship focuses on equipping journalists with critical digital security skills, including:

• Holistic Security Basics: Learn comprehensive strategies for personal and professional safety.
• Operational Security: Understand risk assessments and create effective security plans.
• Password and Account Security: Master secure password management and protect online accounts.
• Online Identity Management: Explore anonymization tools for investigative journalism.
• Device Security: Safeguard your smartphones and computers from cyber threats.
• Website Protection: Defend media websites against attacks.
• Data Encryption: Learn secure data storage techniques for sensitive media files.
• Combat Digital Violence: Tackle issues like doxing, trolling, and online impersonation.

Benefits

• Travel Support: All travel expenses to and from Berlin are fully covered.
• Visa Facilitation: Assistance is provided for all visa-related processes.
• Comfortable Accommodation: A fully paid apartment in Berlin for the fellowship duration.
• Public Transport Access: Coverage for unlimited use of public transportation in Berlin.
• Health Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance during your stay.
• Monthly Stipend: A financial allowance of €1,000 per month to support your living expenses.

Eligible Nationalities

This fellowship is open to people of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

• Proficiency in English (program conducted entirely in English).
• Proven journalistic experience.
• Commitment to returning to your home region post-fellowship.
• Journalists working on critical issues such as the climate crisis, corruption, migration, or labor rights are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Procedure

How to Apply?

To apply, complete the application form and upload the required documents here:

1. Deadline: Submit your application by November 25, 2024, 23:59 (CET).
2. Check your spam folder for confirmation emails or try a different email address if needed. For secure communication, contact rsf.digitalfreedom@protonmail.com.

Conclusion

The Berlin Fellowship Program 2025 is a rare opportunity to develop cutting-edge digital security skills and contribute to global media freedom. By participating, you not only protect yourself but also empower other journalists in your region. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference—apply today!

For further details, visit the official application link or contact RSF Germany.