Application Deadline: 15 June 2026
The German-Japanese Fellowship Programme 2026 is a rare opportunity for journalists who want to step beyond borders and report on the forces shaping today’s world. Backed by the International Journalists’ Programmes (IJP), this exchange connects talented reporters with global perspectives, real newsroom experience, and a platform for impactful storytelling.
At a time when geopolitics, technology, and economic shifts are redefining global narratives, this fellowship offers something deeper than a typical media program; it offers immersion. Each year, only five journalists from Japan and five from Germany are selected, making it both competitive and highly rewarding.
The programme runs from September 28 to November 27, 2026, beginning with a four-day intensive orientation in Berlin. This opening phase is more than just an introduction; it’s where ideas are shaped, collaborations begin, and fellows prepare for the work ahead through cultural briefings and professional exchange.
After this, Japanese fellows are placed within German media organizations, primarily in Berlin. Here, they work as guest reporters, gaining firsthand insight into the European media landscape while developing their own research projects. The experience is hands-on, demanding, and deeply enriching, ideal for journalists ready to grow professionally and expand their influence.
The programme places strong emphasis on high-impact reporting, encouraging fellows to explore topics like geopolitics, economic transformation, climate and energy policy, emerging technologies, migration, and demographic change. These are not just themes; they are areas where thoughtful journalism can shape understanding across borders.
The journey concludes with a closing conference in Tokyo, where fellows reconnect, present their work, and reflect on their experiences as part of a growing international network.
Eligibility
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be 28 to 40 years old
- Work as a freelance or full-time journalist for a Japanese media organization
- Show strong interest or expertise in areas like geopolitics, economics, environment, or emerging technologies
- Have excellent English skills (spoken and written); German is an advantage but not required
- Demonstrate a collaborative mindset and willingness to engage actively
Application package (submitted as one PDF) should include:
- CV (with passport photo)
- Letter of reference from editor-in-chief or department head
- Work samples (links to published articles)
- One-page motivation letter
- 90-second application video (in English)
- Research proposal (1–2 pages)
You may also like: Barbara Huber Scholarship Program 2026 (Monthly Research Stipend)
Benefits
Selected fellows receive a €4,200 grant, designed to support:
- Travel expenses
- Living costs during the fellowship
- Health insurance coverage
But beyond the funding, the real value lies in:
- Direct placement in a German media organization
- Exposure to international journalism practices
- Access to a strong global network of media professionals
- Long-term membership in the IJP alumni community
This kind of experience often becomes a turning point, opening doors to international collaborations, fellowships, and career advancement.
Application
Applications are reviewed by a selection jury based on submitted materials and, in some cases, a Zoom interview. Successful candidates will be notified by early July 2026.
This is a competitive program with limited slots, so clarity of purpose, strong storytelling ability, and a well-defined research idea can make a real difference.
How to apply
Applications must be sent via email to johns@ijp.org with a copy to office@ijp.org. Use the subject line: [your name] / Japan 2026.
For more details, visit German-Japanese Fellowship Programme.
