# RIAS Berlin Commission

> The RIAS Berlin Commission - founded 1992 in recognition of the merits of RIAS Berlin (Radio in the American Sector) as a “free voice of the free world” from 1946 to 1993


## Posts

- [Call for a Transatlantic Exchange Program for Journalism Students](https://riasberlin.org/call-for-a-transatlantic-exchange-program-for-journalism-students/): The RIAS Berlin Commission is launching a new transatlantic exchange program for journalism master students from Germany and the United States. Eight American and eight German students will collaborate on journalistic projects and take part in workshops in Washington, DC and Berlin. Call for a Transatlantic Exchange Program for Journalism Students The RIAS Berlin Commission is inviting journalism master students from Germany and the United States to apply for a new transatlantic exchange program running from February 2027 to May 2028. Eight American and eight German students will work together on journalistic projects exploring transatlantic issues such as trade, defense, politics, […]
- [What 12 American Journalists took away from their RIAS Fellowship in Germany](https://riasberlin.org/what-12-american-journalists-took-away-from-their-rias-fellowship-in-germany/): From Münich to Dresden, Erfurt, Berlin, Cologne and Brussels, twelve American journalists explored Germany's media landscape, history and democratic institutions. These reflections highlight the lasting impact of the 2026 RIAS fellowship.
- [Insights from 19 American Journalists on their RIAS Alumni Program in Germany](https://riasberlin.org/insights-from-19-american-journalists-on-their-rias-alumni-program-in-germany/): John Pertzborn, KTRS 550 AM, St. Louis, Missouri It was a week in May that I will never forget. I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the RIAS Fellowship program in Berlin along with a day visit to Leipzig. Having last visited Berlin with RIAS in 1995, it was remarkable to witness firsthand how much Germany- and Berlin in particular- has transformed over the past 30 years. The city’s growth, modernization and renewed energy were evident everywhere, while still preserving the deep historical significance that makes Germany, such an important partner and ally. One valuable aspect of the fellowship was […]
- [RIAS Media Awards 2026](https://riasberlin.org/rias-media-awards-2026/): The award ceremony took place on May 07 at Berlin’s iconic Red City Hall.  300 guests, among them many RIAS alumni and other journalists, as well as representatives from politics and civil society followed the invitation and honored the award recipients from America and Germany for their outstanding contributions to transatlantic journalism. 
- [Winners of the 2026 RIAS Media Awards](https://riasberlin.org/winners-of-the-2026-rias-media-awards/): On May 7, 2026, the RIAS Berlin Commission will present the RIAS Media Awards at Berlin’s City Hall Rotes Rathaus to journalists from Germany and the United States who have addressed topics of transatlantic relevance in a particularly compelling manner in their articles and reports.
- [Testimonials of 12 German journalists about their two-week RIAS fellowship in the USA](https://riasberlin.org/testimonials-of-twelve-german-journalists-about-their-two-week-rias-fellowship-in-the-usa/): Leander Löwe, ARD, Hamburg The RIAS program has already been the best thing that has happened to me in 2026. From insightful discussions on current U.S. politics about the Iran conflict and the preparations for the midterm elections, to direct comparisons of journalistic practices (with visits at The New York Times, Telemundo, or NPR), I am now bringing many new insights back to my daily work in the newsroom at ARD. Many of the events helped me better understand the situation in the White House and the local press—an experience that is extremely important for journalists working from Germany. My days […]
- [RIAS 80th Anniversary in special Podcast](https://riasberlin.org/rias-80th-anniversary-in-special-podcast/): „Die Medienhölle“ Podcast with media journalist Jörg Wagner dedicated a special episode to the 80th Anniversary of RIAS telling the history of our eponym. Former colleagues recall defining moments during their time at the Radio In The American Sector.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j6nNh95tRQ
- [Twelve German journalists talk about their experiences and insights gained during their two-week RIAS fellowship in the USA](https://riasberlin.org/twelve-german-journalists-talk-about-their-experiences-and-insights-gained-during-their-two-week-rias-fellowship-in-the-usa/): Carsten Upadek, WDR, Cologne A notebook filled with writing, hundreds of photos, and a treasure trove of experiences — that and more is what I brought back from our amazing trip with the RIAS Berlin Commission Fellowship. New York, Philadelphia, Miami, Washington — four remarkable cities in less than two weeks. Each day was so packed with impressions that it felt much longer than 24 hours. For me, it was a deep dive into American society. Right from the start in New York, one fascinating meeting followed another: the Committee to Protect Journalists, The Daily (my first ever downloaded podcast), and […]
- [US Journalists reflect on their RIAS Berlin Fellowship in Germany](https://riasberlin.org/us-journalists-reflect-on-their-rias-berlin-fellowship-in-germany/): Eleven US journalists recount their transformative RIAS Berlin Commission fellowship in Germany. From NATO and European Commission briefings to newsroom visits in Berlin, Cologne, and Leipzig, they share powerful insights on journalism, democracy, and transatlantic relations.
- [Insights from 11 American Journalists on Their RIAS Berlin Fellowship](https://riasberlin.org/insights-from-11-american-journalists-on-their-rias-berlin-fellowship/): Eleven American journalists recount their transformative RIAS Berlin Commission fellowship in Germany. From NATO and European Commission briefings to newsroom visits in Berlin, Cologne, and Leipzig, they share powerful insights on journalism, democracy, and transatlantic relations.
- [American Journalism Students Share Insights from 3-Week Fellowship in Germany (Berlin, Dresden, Hamburg & More)](https://riasberlin.org/impressions-of-american-journalism-students-after-their-3-week-fellowship-to-germany/): Discover the experiences of 11 American journalism students during a 3-week RIAS Berlin Commission fellowship across Germany. From Berlin to Hamburg, they share unique insights into journalism training, cultural exchange, and building connections with their German peers.
- [Impressions from RIAS Media Awards 2025](https://riasberlin.org/impressions-from-rias-media-awards-2025/): Highlights from the 2025 RIAS Media Awards in Berlin’s French Church at Gendarmenmarkt. Laureates Laura Nix, Christine Rütten, Cooper Seamer, Halle Parker, Melissa Körner, Rieke Smit and Emma Miesler were honored for their outstanding journalism. Listen to the first RIAS Fireside Talk podcast featuring the award winners
- [German Journalism Students Reflect on Their 3-Week RIAS ERP Fellowship in the USA](https://riasberlin.org/german-journalism-students-reflect-on-their-3-week-rias-erp-fellowship-in-the-usa/): Twelve German journalism students share their insights from a three-week RIAS ERP fellowship in the USA, with experiences ranging from Washington D.C. to Oklahoma, Nebraska, Arizona, and Indiana, exploring U.S. politics, media, and culture during a historic time.
- [German journalists reflect on their RIAS Berlin Commission fellowship in the USA prior to the presidential elections](https://riasberlin.org/german-journalists-reflect-on-their-rias-berlin-commission-fellowship-in-the-usa-prior-to-the-presidential-elections/): Discover the experiences of 11 German journalists in the USA at a particularly exciting and crucial time – only a few weeks before the presidential election
- [American journalists reflect on a memorable RIAS Berlin Commission fellowship in Germany](https://riasberlin.org/american-journalists-reflect-on-a-memorable-rias-berlin-commission-fellowship-in-germany/): This group of American journalists had the rare opportunity to participate in the ceremony of the RIAS Media Awards, to witness Yulia Navalnaya receiving the DWFreedom of Speach. Award and to personally meet Margot Friedländer.
- [RIAS Alumni reflect on week spent in Los Angeles](https://riasberlin.org/rias-alumni-reflect-on-week-spent-in-los-angeles/): Twenty-three German alumni spent a week in Los Angeles learning about California politics, national politics and journalism in the US The program included visits to NBC, NPR, ARD, KABC, KTLA and meetings with LAist journalists.   In addition the group met with former Governor Pete Wilson and Richard Grenell, former United States Ambassador to Germany. Damla Hekimoğlu, Hamburg Los Angeles – it might seem like a world for the rich and famous. However, this image is showing some cracks. The massive wealth gap – it’s worrisome. We saw this on the first day of the trip. We started on Skid Row: […]
- [German Journalists Share Insights from Their 3-Week RIAS Fellowship in the USA](https://riasberlin.org/german-journalists-report-on-their-usa-rias-experiences/): Thirteen German journalists reflect on their three-week RIAS Berlin Commission Fellowship in the USA, with experiences in Washington, New York, and station weeks across Texas, Missouri, Illinois, and Georgia, exploring American politics, media, and culture firsthand.

## Pages

- [Home](https://riasberlin.org/): Fostering Transatlantic Journalism RIAS Berlin Commission Connecting journalists across Germany and the U.S. through fellowships, exchanges, and media collaboration since 1992. Learn More Stay Informed on Journalism & RIAS Insights, Updates & Stories Explore reports, stories, and program highlights from the RIAS Berlin Commission. Stay updated on journalism trends, transatlantic media, and the latest fellow experiences. Read More A Unique Experience for Journalists Programs & Fellowships Our fellowships connect media professionals across borders, providing hands-on reporting experiences in leading newsrooms. Apply Now Honoring Outstanding Journalism The RIAS Media Awards Celebrating excellence in transatlantic reporting, the RIAS Media Awards recognize the best […]
- [Cookie Policy (EU)](https://riasberlin.org/cookie-policy-eu/)
- [Accessibility Statment](https://riasberlin.org/accessibility-statment/): Our Commitment We are dedicated to ensuring our website is accessible to all users, regardless of ability. Accessibility and inclusivity are fundamental to our mission. Accessibility Standards This site strives to meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA, and conforms with international standards including the ADA, Section 508, and EAA EN 301 549. Tools & Enhancements We use the All in One Accessibility widget—a lightweight, AI-powered solution that makes implementing vital accessibility features quick and effective. It enhances usability by providing accessible design adjustments (e.g., font, color, spacing), screen reader support and keyboard navigation, This plugin lets users customize their experience via […]
- [Privacy Statement](https://riasberlin.org/privacy-statement/): Infos will follow
- [Contact](https://riasberlin.org/contact/): Contact Us We would love to speak with you.Feel free to reach out using the info on your right or below +49-(0)30-8503-6981 info@riasberlin.org Funkhaus at Hans-Rosenthal-Platz 10825 Berlin Team Christoph Jumpelt Executive Director +49 (0)172 2670951 jumpelt@riasberlin.org Pam Ortega U.S. Coordinator ortega@riasberlin.org Elke Krüger Finance & Office Management +49 (0) 30 8503-6971 krueger@riasberlin.org Honorary Chairs Wolfram Weimer Minister of State for Culture and the Media Alan Meltzer Chargé d’Affaires Embassy of the United States of America in the Federal Republic of Germany Chairpersons Scott Weinhold Chairman Minister-Counselor for Public Affairs Embassy of the United States of America to the Federal Republic […]
- [News and Events](https://riasberlin.org/news-and-events/)
- [Alumni archive](https://riasberlin.org/alumni-archive/): Alumni archive Explore the archive of past fellows who participated in the RIAS Berlin Commission’s exchange programs. Discover Our Alumni Stories American Fellows Directory of American RIAS Fellows Since 1994 German Fellows Directory of German RIAS Fellows Since 1994
- [History](https://riasberlin.org/history/): RIAS Berlin: A Legacy of Broadcasting and Exchange From its early days as a radio station countering propaganda to its role in fostering transatlantic media collaboration, RIAS Berlin has shaped journalism and free speech. Explore the key milestones that define its history and lasting impact.   1946 Establishment of RIAS Berlin Following the end of World War II, the United States established the Radio in the American Sector (RIAS) in Berlin. The station was created to provide reliable news and information to the residents of West Berlin and beyond the Berlin Wall into the former socialist GDR, countering Soviet-controlled propaganda. 1946 […]
- [Awards](https://riasberlin.org/awards/): RIAS Media Awards Recognizing excellence in journalism between Germany and the U.S. Learn More Apply Now What Are the RIAS Media Awards? The RIAS Berlin Commission Media Awards recognize outstanding journalism that enhances German-American understanding. The awards honor reporting in radio, television, and digital media, highlighting stories that contribute to a deeper dialogue between the two nations. Who can apply? All journalists working for German or American media outlets are eligible. Prior participation in a RIAS exchange program is not required. money-bag Prize Money The total prize pool is €10,000, awarded across different categories. Awards Ceremony The winners will be honored […]
- [Apply for Programs](https://riasberlin.org/apply-for-programs/): 2 Week RIAS Germany Program Summer & Fall 🌞 Summer: June 06 to 19, 2027  🍃 Fall: September 05 to 18, 2027 American journalists are invited to apply for a two-week exchange program in Germany and become part of a dynamic German-American network. The RIAS Berlin Commission program was established in 1992 and has been promoting exchanges between German and American journalists ever since. It was named after the legendary radio station “Radio in the American Sector” (RIAS), which was the “voice of the free world” during the Cold War, broadcasting news, information and music to the former socialist-ruled GDR, where […]
- [Programs](https://riasberlin.org/programs/): Explore Our Transatlantic Fellowship Programs Exchange programs connecting U.S. and German journalists & students across borders. For U.S. ApplicantsFür deutsche Bewerber Summer Journalism Fellowship June 06 to 19, 2027 More Info Fall Journalism Fellowship September 05 to 18, 2027 More Info Transatlantic Student Program February 2027 to May 2028 Apply Austauschprogramm: Frühling 07. bis 20. März 2027 Mehr Erfahren Austauschprogramm: Herbst 10. bis 23. Oktober 2027 Mehr Erfahren Transatlantic Student Program February 2027 to May 2028 Mehr Erfahren A Legacy of Excellence in Journalism Exchange Since its founding, RIAS Berlin Commission has provided fully funded transatlantic fellowships for over 1,800+ journalists […]
- [About us](https://riasberlin.org/about-us/): About the RIAS Berlin Commission Fostering German-American understanding through journalism and media exchange. Discover Our Programs 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 1,800 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. […]
- [Data Privacy](https://riasberlin.org/data-privacy/): Privacy Policy Last updated: 13 August 2025 Table of Contents Data Protection at a Glance Information About the Controller Hosting and Content Delivery Network (CDN) General Notes on Legal Bases Transfers to Third Countries & EU–US DPF Recipients of Personal Data Your Rights Retention Period SSL/TLS Encryption Data Collected on This Website Cookies, Local Storage & Consent Management (Complianz) Server Log Files Contacting Us by Email Newsletter (if used) Web Analytics (self-hosted) Plugins & Third-Party Content Google Maps YouTube (Consent & Enhanced Privacy Mode) Google Fonts (local), Font Awesome (local) Wordfence Data Processing Agreement Changes to This Policy Contact Information 1. […]
- [Imprint](https://riasberlin.org/impressum/): Name and AddressRIAS Berlin CommissionFunkhaus at Hans-Rosenthal-Platz 10825 BerlinGermany Authorized RepresentativeChristoph JumpeltExecutive Director ContactPhone: +49-(0)30-8503-6981Email: info@riasberlin.orgWebsite: www.riasberlin.org Person Responsible for Editorial ContentPursuant to § 55 (2) Interstate Broadcasting Treaty (RStV):Christoph JumpeltExecutive Director RIAS Berlin CommissionFunkhaus at Hans-Rosenthal-Platz 10825 BerlinGermany Legal StatusThe RIAS Berlin Commission is a bi-national, publicly funded organization promoting transatlantic understanding in journalism. DisclaimerDespite careful content control, we assume no liability for the content of external links. The operators of linked pages are solely responsible for their content. CopyrightAll content of this website (texts, images, graphics) is protected by copyright. Reproduction, editing, or distribution requires prior written consent from […]

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