International Journalists‘ Programmes (IJP) Middle East Programme Journalists’ Bursary Programme 2026 in Germany (5,000 Euro Stipend)

Applications are now open for the 2026 IJP Middle East Programme Journalists’ Bursary Programme. Within the Middle East Programme, founded in 2005, the IJP contributes to an intensive dialogue between media outlets in a region particularly affected by conflict and at the same time invites journalists from Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan and Egypt to take part in an exchange with their German colleagues.

Up to five journalists from the Middle East (Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestinian Territories and Israel) will be given the opportunity to receive a two-month travel and work scholarship for Germany. This is done in cooperation with governmental institutions, foundations and sponsors in Germany and the Middle East. At the same time, this scholarship is open to journalists from Germany who can apply for a two-month stay in the Middle East.

The fellowship is intended to enable young journalists to become familiar with the political issues in Germany at an early stage of their career. This raises awareness of aspects of relations between Germany and the Middle East and gives participants a personal insight into mentality, culture and everyday life in Germany and the European Union.

Dates

• Introductory conference 2026: October 29 – 30 in Berlin

Eligibility

• Applications may be submitted by any citizen of the countries aged between 21 and 37 years who is working as a regular employee, trainee or journalist for established media outlets.

Program Timeline

• The fellowship begins with an introductory event in Berlin from October 29 – 30, 2026, together with the German fellows. This is followed by a two-month fellowship at a German media outlet.

• Fellows may indicate their preferred media branch (newspaper, radio, TV, digital), while the specific placement will be arranged by the organizers in consultation with the fellows. There will be the possibility to extend the stay on an individual basis.

• Additionally, a two-week intensive German language course in Berlin is available at the start of the program, with all costs covered.

Fellowship Grant

• Each fellow receives a grant of 5,000 Euro.

• This sum is intended to cover a significant portion of the travel costs, board and lodging expenses.

• Fellows are expected to contribute partially to their costs. Please note that there is no additional salary provided for the journalist’s work on location.

Application Process

• Applications, for which there is no special form required, are to be submitted by June 15th,

• The application should include a detailed CV with a passport photo, a letter of motivation, and a journalistic appraisal written by the head of department or editor-in-chief.

• The appraisal letter should support the application, guarantee temporary leave of absence for the duration of the program, and serve as evidence of journalistic experience. Samples of previous work may be enclosed.

• A strong English proficiency is required. While knowledge of German will naturally be welcomed, this is not an essential requirement for an application.

• After an initial selection process, the finalists may be invited for a selection interview or conference call. The selection committee’s decision is final and not subject to legal appeal.

• Successful candidates will be notified by mid-August.

• All fellows are required to submit a three-page report summarizing their experiences, activities, and impressions upon completion of the fellowship.

• Please send applications by email to: freiling@ijp.org and office@ijp.org