About the RIAS Berlin Commission

Fostering German-American understanding through journalism and media exchange.

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Who We Are

The RIAS Berlin Commission is a binational organization dedicated to fostering German-American understanding in broadcast journalism. Established in 1992 through a bilateral agreement between Germany and the United States, RIAS promotes the exchange of journalists and media professionals. Over 1,700 journalists have participated in our fellowship programs, forming a global network of RIAS alumni.

Our History

Born out of the Cold War, Radio in the American Sector (RIAS) was more than a broadcaster—it was a lifeline of independent journalism in divided Berlin. Since 1946, it stood as a voice of democracy, countering censorship and uniting audiences. Today, the RIAS Berlin Commission continues this mission of free press and transatlantic exchange.

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What We Do

Student Fellowships

Training the next generation of journalists. Our programs provide workshops, mentorship, and networking for aspiring media professionals.

Alumni Network

A lifelong community of media professionals. Over 1,700 alumni engage in exclusive events, mentorship, and collaborations across continents.

Real Experiences, Lasting Impact

Journalists who have participated in the RIAS Berlin Commission’s programs share how their experiences have shaped their careers, perspectives, and understanding of transatlantic journalism. Discover their stories and the impact of RIAS on global media collaboration.

Moritz Metz

Deutschlandradio, Berlin

I found their service very impressive because they met all the requirements I asked for. Great team. Great service. Loved it. I will surely recommend them for their service and behaviour.

Lauren Lipton

KYW Newsradio, Philadelphia, PA

Learning about Germany’s rich history, being able to hear firsthand about its triumphs and its problems, seeing the devastating events that created these problems and exploring the difficulties encountered in trying to solve them, was an education.

Johanna Cleary

News Director, Alabama Public Television, Montgomery, AL

Over a week of sightseeing and meetings with Bundestag members, city and national government officials, community leaders, and German journalists, our group saw and learned of aspects of Berlin’s history that German friends later told me they did not even know about.

Doris Bergman

Producer, New York 1 News, New York

The RIAS program opened my eyes to the beauty of Germany—the landscape, architecture, art, theater, food, beer, and its people—its incredibly warm, welcoming, helpful, insightful, bright, funny, resilient people.

News

Insights, Updates, and Perspectives from RIAS Berlin

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