The ACG Journalism Fellowships for the Study of German Politics and Society were offered from 2001 to 2008, providing American print and broadcast journalists who were in relatively early stages of their careers an opportunity to conduct research in Germany on political, economic, and social issues. Under the auspices of this program, fellows addressed topics with political or policy significance in Germany’s relations with the United States and/or within the European Union for up to 28 days.
Since the end of World War II, the political, economic, and social ties between the United States and Germany have intensified. More than 50 years after Germans and Americans faced each other as enemies, the U.S. and Germany today exemplify what many have called a model bilateral relationship. The reaction of the German public to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and U.S.-German cooperation in fighting terrorism underline the close ties between the two countries. However, disagreement over military action in Iraq – as well as differences of opinion on other issues, such as global warming, missile defense, and the role of an International Criminal Court – revealed tensions across the Atlantic in recent years. In light of these developments, this program raised awareness in Germany and the United States of concerns and perspectives on the other side of the Atlantic.
Since 1976, the American Council on Germany has been sponsoring American and German journalists to travel to Germany and the United States, respectively, to conduct research and to establish relationships with their professional counterparts. The American Council on Germany launched this special program tailored to American journalists.
Fellows developed research itineraries in consultation with the American Council on Germany and had the opportunity to consult with the German Information Center to help implement their projects. Following the completion of the trip, fellows submitted a report summarizing their findings. They were highly encouraged to report on their experiences in the media.
The fellowship program served American print or broadcast journalists who were in relatively early stages of their careers, including those with only limited exposure to Europe.
