Applications Now Open for the 2025 Reham al-Farra Memorial Journalism Fellowship

Since its inception in 1981, the fellowship has hosted 670 journalists from 168 countries, providing them with the tools to produce high-quality coverage of the UN General Assembly and related events. Many former fellows have built strong international networks, advancing their careers and contributing to more informed global reporting.

Established as the Department of Public Information (DPI) Training Programme for Broadcasters and Journalists from Developing Countries under United Nations General Assembly Resolution 35/201, the fellowship was renamed in 2003 in honour of Reham Al-Farra, a 29-year-old Jordanian UN Public Information Officer who tragically lost her life in the 19 August 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad.

RAF fellowship participants gain firsthand exposure to the inner workings of the United Nations, equipping them to report more effectively on key global issues. Fellows engage with senior UN officials, media experts, and specialized UN speakers, receiving valuable training while expanding their professional networks and strengthening connections with UN offices to support future reporting.

The programme enjoys broad support within the UN system, including from the Deputy Secretary-General and the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. Past fellows have had the opportunity to meet with high-ranking officials, such as the UN Secretary-General, the President of the General Assembly, and Permanent Representatives to the UN. Additionally, participants engage with international news organizations and receive training from leading media experts.

This prestigious programme, scheduled for September and October 2025, is open to journalists aged 22 to 35, from developing countries and economies in transition, with experience reporting on UN-related issues. Journalists from Eswatini are strongly encouraged to apply and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to gain valuable insights, enhance their expertise, and contribute to more in-depth coverage of international affairs.

The application period for the 2025 RAF fellowship runs from 17 February to 31 March 2025. Interested candidates can apply at: https://www.un.org/en/raf/application2025.