Applications are now open for the IOM Ethical Migration Journalism Fellowship Programme 2026, a fully funded opportunity supporting journalists and students to produce original, evidence-based stories on migration in northern Thailand.
The fellowship, organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in partnership with Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will select five fellows who will each receive a USD 1,000 reporting grant, mentorship, editorial guidance, and opportunities to publish their work through IOM platforms.
The Ethical Migration Journalism Fellowship is a three-month programme designed to strengthen responsible, balanced, and conflict-sensitive reporting on migration. Fellows will investigate migration issues in Chiang Rai and surrounding areas, producing stories grounded in evidence, local realities, and the lived experiences of migrants.
The initiative builds on IOM’s migration journalism training and aims to empower local journalists and emerging storytellers with practical skills, editorial support, and professional networking opportunities.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful fellows will receive:
- USD 1,000 reporting grant to produce an original migration story
- One-on-one mentorship and editorial guidance throughout the fellowship
- Technical support from IOM specialists and partner organizations
- Opportunities to exchange knowledge with foreign correspondents
- Training in ethical interviewing and conflict-sensitive journalism
- Publication opportunities through IOM communication channels
- Participation in a growing network of migration reporting professionals
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to journalists and students who meet all of the following requirements:
- Be based in Chiang Rai, Thailand (regardless of nationality)
- Have completed either:
- An IOM Migration Reporting Training, or
- The Global Migration Media Academy (GMMA) online courses: Migration Explained and Reporting Migration in Thailand
- Demonstrate a strong interest in ethical migration journalism
- Submit an original and feasible story proposal focused on migration in Chiang Rai or nearby areas
- Be available to complete the fellowship between 1 October and 31 December 2026
Fellowship Expectations
Selected fellows will be expected to:
- Attend an online orientation and monthly virtual check-ins
- Participate in an IOM-organized field visit in Chiang Rai
- Develop and complete a high-quality migration story during the fellowship period
- Engage with mentors and editors throughout the reporting process
- Submit the final story by 8 January 2027
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Updated CV or résumé
- One-page cover letter explaining motivation and story idea
- Completed Story Proposal Form
- Certificate of IOM training or GMMA online course completion
- Two published work samples (journalists only)
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 1 September 2026 |
| Application deadline | 22 September 2026 |
| Shortlisting & interviews | 23–25 September 2026 |
| Selected fellows announced | 29 September 2026 |
| Fellowship period | 1 Oct – 31 Dec 2026 |
| Final story due | 8 January 2027 |
Why This Fellowship Matters
Migration remains one of Southeast Asia’s most important social and economic issues, yet it is often reported without sufficient context or the voices of affected communities. This fellowship equips journalists with the tools to produce accurate, ethical, and impactful reporting while strengthening public understanding of migration through evidence-based storytelling.
For early-career journalists and students, it also offers valuable mentorship, international networking opportunities, and practical experience working alongside migration experts.
How to Strengthen Your Application
To improve your chances of selection:
- Propose a clear, original story with strong public interest.
- Demonstrate knowledge of migration issues affecting Chiang Rai communities.
- Highlight previous journalism, research, or storytelling experience.
- Show your commitment to ethical, balanced, and human rights-based reporting.
- Ensure your cover letter clearly explains both your motivation and the impact of your proposed story.
How to Apply
Complete the required application documents and submit your application by 22 September 2026. Only applicants who meet the eligibility requirements and submit all required materials will be considered.
Deadline: 22 September 2026
