Application Deadline: June 15th, 2025
Applications are now open for the 2025 International Journalists‘ Programmes (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.
Requirements
- Applications may be submitted by any citizen of the countries mentioned above, aged 21 or over who is working as a regular employee, trainee or journalist for media. The maximum age is 37 years.
Scholarship
Each fellow receives a one-time payment of 5,000 euros (stipend money + 1.000 euros travel allowance). The amount is intended to cover most travel, food and accommodation costs. Scholarship holders are expected to contribute. There is no remuneration fo journalistic work.
Fellowship Duration
- The fellowship begins on with an introductory event from October 29– 31, 2025 in Berlin together with the German fellows.
- This is followed by German language course and a two-month fellowship at a German media outlet.
Application Timeline:
- Each year, the fellowship begins at the end of October with an introductory conference in Berlin, where participants from the Middle East and Germany meet.
- This is followed by a German language course for the Middle Eastern fellows. After that, they start their two-month placement at a German host media outlet.
- Upon their return, all fellows write a report of at least three pages on their experience, activities and impressions in the country.
Application Procedure:
The application must be accompanied by a detailed CV with a passport photo, and a recommendation letter written by the head of department or editor-in-chief. The letter should support the application, guarantee temporary leave of absence for the duration of the fellowship, and serve as evidence of journalistic activity. Samples of work may be enclosed. A very good knowledge of English is expected. While a knowledge of German will naturally be welcomed, this is not an essential requirement for an application. For more details, please refer to the current call for applications.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the IJP Middle East Programme Journalists’ Bursary Programme.
