The Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Fellowship is an international journalism exchange programme. It is organised by the International Journalists’ Programmes to support those with an interest in media and journalism. The fellowship provides aid for young journalists from Germany and Eastern Europe. The program allows them to work in a foreign newsroom and enhance their reporting skills.
It is named after renowned German journalist Marion Gräfin Dönhoff, and the programme promotes dialogue, press freedom, and professional growth.
About the Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Fellowship
The fellowship allows selected journalists to take part in a two-month editorial placement abroad. Participants work as guest editors within professional newsrooms, gaining massive experience in a different media environment. During training sessions, fellows must contribute good content for both host and home publications.
The programme starts with an introductory conference where fellows meet their mates, coordinators, and media experts. After this, fellows begin their newsroom placement and are integrated into editorial systems and reporting processes. The environment allows for easy learning for all participants. During the stay, participants will do independent journalistic projects.
The fellowship improves international understanding through journalism by encouraging international reporting and storytelling. Fellows gain exposure to new editorial standards, reporting methods l, and media systems.
Each year, 10 to 12 journalists are chosen , creating a competitive and highly selective system focused on international cooperation.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: EUR 4,000
- Maximum award: EUR 4,000
- Project duration supported: Two months
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Who Can Apply for the Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Fellowship
Eligible organisation types
- Individual journalists working in the media
- Freelance journalists and editorial trainees
- Early reporters
- Media professionals regularly publish journalistic work
Registration or legal documents
- Professional résumé
- Proof of journalistic employment
- Samples of freelance work
- Portfolio of published articles
- Valid passport
Project focus requirements
- Demonstrated journalistic experience
- Interest in international reporting
- Ability to work independently in a newsroom environment
- Strong motivation for professional exchange
Geographic eligibility
- Journalists from Germany and Eastern European countries
- Eligible applicants include journalists from Russia, Ukraine, or Belarus working abroad
- Applicants must be able to travel for the fellowship placement
Sector or thematic focus
- International journalism
- Political and social reporting
- Cross-border media collaboration
- Cultural and economic reporting
Application Process
- Prepare application documents in a single PDF file
- Complete fellowship application according to programme guidelines
- Submit the application via email to the programme coordinators
- Await evaluation and selection decision
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Required Materials
- Completed application submission
- Resume
- Work samples
- Publication portfolio
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Proof of professional journalistic activity
Key Dates
- Application Opens: 3 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
- Selection notification: 6 June 2026
- Introductory conference: September 2026
- Fellowship placement: October to November 2026
Selection Notes
- The fellowship is highly competitive
- Priority is given to applicants with strong international reporting interest, media knowledge and professional experience
- Applicants outside Germany and Eastern Europe are excluded
Official Source of the Marion Gräfin Dönhoff Fellowship
Application Page: https://ijp.org/en/programmes/easterneurope/