Reporters Without Borders (RSF) in Germany has opened applications for its Berlin Fellowship Program in Digital Security, scheduled to run from May to October 2025.
This six-month fellowship aims to assist six selected journalists in enhancing their digital security skills while in Berlin, with the goal of empowering them to protect themselves and their colleagues in the field.
The fellowship will provide participants with comprehensive training in critical aspects of digital security, including online identity management, secure communication, and data protection, with funding from the Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Public Enterprises.
Fellowship Training and Support
Participants in the program will engage in a structured digital security curriculum led by experienced trainers. RSF will cover various costs associated with the fellowship, including:
•Travel expenses
•Visa assistance
•Housing
•Health insurance
•Public transportation during the fellowship
Additionally, each fellow will receive a monthly stipend of €1,000.
Beyond training, candidates will have opportunities to network with fellow journalists, civil society organizations, and members of RSF Germany’s team, providing insights into the organization’s efforts to promote press freedom.
Digital Security Training Topics
The fellowship curriculum will cover a broad range of essential skills, including:
•Comprehensive Security Measures: Introduction to holistic security practices tailored for journalists.
•Secure Communication and Data Management: Training on secure communication methods, encrypted data storage, and safe online conferencing.
•Online Identity Management: Strategies for protecting online identities and utilizing anonymization tools.
•Protection Against Digital Violence: Techniques for addressing challenges such as doxing, online harassment, and other forms of digital intimidation.
This training is specifically designed to help journalists effectively manage digital risks, especially in high-risk environments.
Eligibility and Requirements
The fellowship is open to journalists, bloggers, and media professionals with relevant experience who face digital security challenges. Key eligibility requirements include:
•Proficiency in English, as the program will be conducted in that language.
•A commitment to returning to their home region to share acquired digital security knowledge with colleagues.
•Availability for the program’s weekly training schedule, which requires 20-25 hours of participation.
Journalists with experience covering critical issues such as environmental challenges, labor rights, or corruption, and those with a background in knowledge-sharing, are particularly encouraged to apply.
Application Process and Deadline
Applications for the fellowship must be submitted by November 25, 2024. Interested candidates can apply through the online form provided by RSF. For further information, applicants are encouraged to reach out to rsf.digitalfreedom@protonmail.com for assistance.
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