The Rest and Refuge Scholarship is now open for applications!

The Rest & Refuge Fellowship is a joint programme between Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the taz Panter Foundation. It has taken place annually since 2015. RSF is an international human rights organisation that defends freedom of the press and information around the world and helps persecuted journalists. The non-profit taz Panter Foundation, in close co-operation with tageszeitung (taz), supports critical journalists as well as the social involvement of independent initiatives in Germany and around the world.

Eligibility Criteria

• They strongly encourage women and members of the LGBTQIA community to apply.

• All media professionals who need some time off from their difficult working conditions.

• Eligibility for the programme.
• The candidate has a firm idea of how the six-month scholarship in Berlin can have a positive impact on their current situation.
• Note: The grant should be used for personal development and, if necessary, professional reorientation, so that the journalist can return to their country of origin with new points of view and renewed energy.

• Several years' experience working as a journalist.
• Note: Although they consider the work of human rights activists to be highly valuable, unfortunately they cannot invite people who are not full-time journalists, as they are not covered by the mandate.

Requirements

• Difficult working conditions. The candidate faces increasing difficulties and threats in their professional environment.

• Sufficient knowledge of English or German. The candidate must be able to communicate with supervisors and participate in the social programme.

• A passport valid for at least 12 months at the time of application (or can be reapplied/renewed independently).

• A good state of health that allows for longer journeys and a six-month stay in the host country, as well as sufficient independence to deal only with day-to-day matters.

• The possibility of returning to their country of origin after their stay. Note: Applications from journalists who are unable to return to their country of origin due to the political situation or their own risk profile unfortunately cannot be considered in the application process.

• Intended period of stay: The stay is limited to six months: from 1 May to 31 October 2023.

For more information, visit RSF.