The 2024 Polio Press Fellowship for Individual Reporting, offered by the United Nations Foundation, is now open for applications. This fellowship targets journalists who are passionate about covering stories related to global polio eradication.
UN Foundation Polio Press Fellowship
Successful fellows will be required to attend a virtual polio training organized by the UN Foundation. Following this, they will travel to a country actively engaged in efforts to eradicate polio to gather relevant content and conduct interviews related to their proposed topic.
After the trip, fellows are expected to publish their work through reputable media outlets. Both local and international reporters with a track record of publishing on national and/or global platforms are encouraged to apply.
Program Details
Polio, a highly contagious disease that predominantly impacts children under five years old, can lead to paralysis and even death. Thanks to extensive efforts aimed at eradication, including the use of an effective vaccine, global surveillance and reporting networks, substantial government investment, and the dedication of healthcare workers, the number of polio cases worldwide has decreased dramatically – by more than 99% since 1988.
Global polio eradication is now within reach. This fellowship aims to equip professional journalists with the opportunity to travel to polio-affected areas, gather stories, and raise awareness on a global scale about the importance of polio eradication efforts and how polio infrastructure can contribute to broader health objectives.
Benefits
- Every chosen fellow will be granted an award, with a maximum amount of USD 10,000, to finance expenses for an individual reporting trip during the first half of 2024. The awarded sum will be determined by the project and budget proposal detailed in their application.
- Eligible expenditures may include transportation, lodging, meals, visas, and other travel-related costs. However, it is important to note that the funds cannot be used to acquire equipment.
- There are two award categories to choose from: small awards (under $5,000) or large awards (up to $10,000).
Eligibility Criteria
- Journalists who have a passion for reporting on the global efforts to eradicate polio are encouraged to apply.
- Priority will be given to reporters who express an interest in visiting the high-priority countries of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Mozambique, Pakistan, Somalia, and Yemen.
Application procedure
- Successful applicants will be notified in January and are expected to complete their reporting trips by July 2024.
- Reporters who are interested in participating are required to submit an application that includes a project proposal and budget. To submit your project proposal, please visit the application page. They encourage applicants to showcase their unique interest in polio eradication, with potential themes such as advancements in polio vaccination and surveillance, the role of polio eradication in health security, the impact of polio programming on broader health goals, the connection between gender and polio, and challenges faced in eradicating polio in complex or remote environments.
For Additional information please visit the UN Foundation Polio Press official website.
Application Deadline
January 1, 2024.
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