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CFAs: Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Journalism Fellowship Programme

Deadline: 30-Apr-2026

The Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Journalism Fellowship Programme offers early- and mid-career journalists from Germany and Eastern Europe a two-month international editorial exchange to gain professional experience, develop cross-border reporting skills, and build media networks. Fellows receive a €4,000 grant to support travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Applications close on 30 April 2026, with placements beginning in September–October 2026.

About the Fellowship

The programme aims to strengthen journalistic exchange and professional development across Germany and Eastern Europe, including:

  • Correspondent-level exposure to host countries

  • Cross-border knowledge sharing within newsrooms

  • Development of editorial and reporting skills

  • Building long-term professional networks among journalists

Fellows work as guest editors for two months in partner media organisations, gaining practical experience and insight into foreign media operations.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

  • Early- and mid-career journalists, bloggers, and documentary filmmakers

  • Age 23–35

  • Regular work as freelancers, journalists, or editors in newspapers, radio, television, or online media

  • German applicants: preference given for knowledge of an Eastern European language

  • Eastern European applicants: must have good German or English language skills

  • Journalists from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and former Central Asian CIS countries are eligible; refugees from Russia, Ukraine, or Belarus currently abroad or in Germany may apply

Exclusions: None explicitly stated, but applicants must meet age, language, and professional criteria.

Fellowship Benefits

  • Two-month editorial exchange at a partner media organisation

  • One-off grant of €4,000 to cover:

    • Travel

    • Accommodation and food

    • Visa fees

    • Health insurance

  • Host organisation financial compensation is generally not provided

  • Introductory conference at the end of September or beginning of October 2026

  • Alumni network opportunities after the placement period

Application Process

  1. Prepare Application

    • Required documents include proof of professional experience and personal information

    • Compile all documents into a single PDF file

  2. Submit Application

    • Submit via email to the programme coordinators

    • Deadline: 30 April 2026

  3. Selection and Notification

    • Selection committee evaluates applicants based on professional experience, skills, and fit for host placement

    • Notification of outcome by 6 June 2026

  4. Placement

    • Two-month stay at a German or Eastern European host media organisation

    • Programme starts with an introductory conference, followed immediately by placement

    • Postponement of placement is not allowed

H2: Key Tips for Applicants

  • Highlight relevant journalistic experience and cross-border work

  • Demonstrate language proficiency for your host country

  • Emphasize ability to work independently in a correspondent-style role

  • Clearly show interest in networking and knowledge exchange within media environments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for this fellowship?

Early- and mid-career journalists, bloggers, and documentary filmmakers aged 23–35 from Germany or Eastern Europe.

2. What is the duration of the fellowship?

Two months, starting with an introductory conference in late September or early October 2026.

3. What does the €4,000 grant cover?

Travel, accommodation, meals, visa fees, and health insurance during the placement.

4. Is financial compensation from the host media organisation provided?

Generally, no; it is at the host’s discretion.

5. Can refugees apply?

Yes, journalists from Russia, Ukraine, or Belarus fleeing their countries and currently abroad or in Germany are eligible.

6. Can the placement be postponed?

No, postponement of the guest stay is not permitted.

7. How are applications submitted?

Applications must be submitted via email as a single PDF file by 30 April 2026.

Conclusion

The Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Journalism Fellowship provides a unique opportunity for young journalists to gain international editorial experience, build cross-border media networks, and strengthen professional skills. The programme emphasizes correspondent-level reporting, professional growth, and long-term networking, offering a structured platform for career development across Germany and Eastern Europe.

For more information, visit IJP.