Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026 is now open for applications, offering 8 to 10 fellowships to experienced journalists from Central and South Eastern Europe. This prestigious programme supports compelling story ideas that require on-the-ground reporting, in-depth research, editorial mentorship, and financial backing.
Organised by the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN), the Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026 focuses on the annual theme of Environment—broadly defined to include the social, political, cultural, technological, and historical forces shaping today’s stories.
Brief Information
The Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026 supports journalists with funding, professional training, and international publication opportunities. Selected fellows will receive a €3,000 reporting grant, mentorship from experienced editors, and participation in an introductory seminar in Vienna. The programme aims to strengthen independent journalism across the region.
Key Dates & Details
- Application Deadline: 10 March 2026
- Theme 2026: Environment (broad contextual interpretation)
- Eligible Countries: Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia
- Funding: €3,000 reporting bursary
- Additional Awards: €1,000–€3,000 for top three stories
- Seminar Location: Vienna, Austria (11–15 May 2026)
- Organiser: Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN)
- Output: Long-form investigative or analytical story
- Publication: English and local languages via BIRN and partner outlets
For broader insights into investigative journalism standards, applicants may explore the official Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) website: https://gijn.org
Table of Contents
Overview
The Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026 is an annual professional development programme designed to empower journalists with the tools, funding, and editorial guidance needed to produce impactful investigative stories.
Since 2007, the Fellowship has supported independent journalism across South Eastern Europe. In 2020, the programme expanded to include journalists from the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, strengthening regional collaboration and cross-border reporting.
This year’s theme, Environment, goes beyond climate change and ecological topics. As explained by editor Neil Arun, applicants are encouraged to think about the broader “environment” that shapes their story — including political systems, economic structures, technological developments, or cultural contexts.
Selected fellows will participate in:
- Advanced training sessions
- Mentorship from experienced editors
- Networking opportunities across BIRN’s regional media network
- An in-person seminar in Vienna (11–15 May 2026)
The Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026 aims to produce powerful long-form stories that combine rigorous research, strong storytelling, and regional relevance for a global audience.
Eligibility
To apply for the Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026, applicants must:
- Be a professional journalist with relevant experience
- Hold citizenship or permanent residence in one of the eligible countries
- Submit a compelling story proposal aligned with the annual theme
- Demonstrate basic preliminary research validating the story idea
- Show capacity to deliver high-quality investigative or analytical work
Eligible countries:
Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia.
Applicants are encouraged to review previous fellowship stories on the official programme page to understand the depth and style expected.
Application Details
To apply for the Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026, candidates must submit their proposal through the official online application form.
Your proposal should:
- Clearly outline the story idea
- Explain the broader environmental context shaping the issue
- Demonstrate feasibility and access to sources
- Reflect preliminary research
- Show your professional capability to execute the project
Helpful resources:
- Programme details: https://fellowship.balkaninsight.com/about/
- Editor tips: https://fellowship.balkaninsight.com/apply/#How_to_maximise_my_chances_for_the_fellowship
Selected fellows will receive:
- €3,000 reporting bursary
- Introductory seminar in Vienna
- Mentorship and editorial guidance
- Publication in English and local languages
- Eligibility for additional awards (€1,000–€3,000)
- Access to the Fellowship alumni network
FAQ
1. How many fellows will be selected?
Between 8 and 10 journalists will be chosen for the Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence 2026
2. Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive a €3,000 bursary and additional financial awards for top stories. Training and mentorship are fully covered.
3. Do I need to focus only on climate or environmental pollution?
No. The theme “Environment” is broadly interpreted and includes social, political, and historical contexts shaping your story.
4. In which language will the stories be published?
Stories will be published in English and local languages through BIRN’s network and partner outlets.
Official Link
To apply and review complete guidelines, visit the official call page:
👉 Apply here:
https://birn.eu.com/news-and-events/call-for-applications-fellowship-for-journalistic-excellence-2026/
Before submitting, carefully review the programme details and expert tips to maximise your chances.
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