Application Deadline: 3 April 2026
The application window is now open for the 2026 UN Reham Al-Farra Memorial Journalists Fellowship Programme. Established by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 35/201 in December 1980, this fellowship was originally known as the DPI Training Programme for Broadcasters and Journalists from Developing Countries. In 2003, it was renamed to honor Reham Al-Farra, a 29-year-old Jordanian UN Public Information Officer who tragically lost her life in the bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad on 19 August 2003.
This fellowship presents a distinctive and valuable opportunity for young journalists, aged between 22 and 35, who are actively working in developing countries or in nations with economies undergoing transition. The programme, held annually every autumn at the United Nations headquarters, allows selected journalists to gain direct insight into the workings of the UN and to report on the General Assembly’s activities for their respective media organizations.
Throughout the fellowship, participants benefit from exclusive briefings, interview sessions with high-ranking UN officials, and the chance to engage in dialogue and knowledge exchange with fellow journalists from across the globe. In past editions, Reham Al-Farra Fellows have had the privilege of meeting prominent figures such as the UN Secretary-General, the Deputy Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly, as well as experts from various UN Secretariat bodies, funds, and specialized agencies. Additionally, they have interacted with Permanent Representatives of their home countries to the United Nations. Beyond official engagements, fellows also visit leading news outlets based in New York City and participate in skill-enhancing workshops led by seasoned media professionals.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open exclusively to journalists who meet the following requirements:
- Must be employed as a full-time journalist.
- Age must be between 22 and 35 years at the time of application.
- Nationality must be from developing countries or from nations classified as having economies in transition.
How to Apply
Applicants are required to submit the following documents along with the completed application form:
- A minimum of five (5) samples of journalistic work related to the United Nations or its key focus areas, published within the last six months. Submissions can be in the applicant’s native language.
- A copy of a valid passport or national identification card.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) written in English.
- Two reference letters endorsing the applicant’s professional capabilities.
Important: All supporting materials and required documents must be uploaded to either Google Drive or Dropbox. Applicants need to share the access link to these files in the designated section of the application form. It is crucial that sharing permissions are set to allow reviewers to view and download the files; failure to do so or incomplete submissions may lead to disqualification from the selection process.
For comprehensive details and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the UN Reham Al-Farra Memorial Journalists Fellowship Programme.
