Call for Applications: 15th ASEF Journalists Seminar 2026 in Thailand (Fully Funded)

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The 15th ASEF Journalists Seminar (ASEFJS15) is now accepting applications for its 2026 edition in Bangkok, Thailand. Organised by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), the fully funded seminar will bring together young journalists and media professionals from Asia and Europe to discuss major challenges affecting journalism and the global media landscape.

The 2026 seminar will take place from 14 to 17 September 2026 under the theme “Journalistic Resilience in a Volatile World.” The programme focuses on media trust, misinformation, geopolitical changes, journalist safety, AI in journalism, and mental well-being in the media profession.

Applications are open from 1 May to 31 May 2026 for eligible applicants from the 51 ASEM partner countries.

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ASEF Journalists Seminar 2026 Overview

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What is the ASEF Journalists Seminar?

The ASEF Journalists Seminar is a long-running international media initiative established in 1998. The programme connects journalists and media professionals from Asia and Europe and encourages dialogue on emerging issues in journalism, communication, and media policy.

Held every two years, the seminar provides a closed-door environment where participants can exchange experiences, discuss challenges facing journalism, and strengthen professional media networks across regions.

The 2026 edition will focus on how journalists can respond to growing pressure from misinformation, political polarisation, declining media trust, digital transformation, and geopolitical tensions.

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Theme of ASEFJS15: Journalistic Resilience in a Volatile World

The central theme for ASEFJS15 is “Journalistic Resilience in a Volatile World.” The seminar will explore the changing conditions of journalism and the practical realities faced by reporters and media organisations.

Participants will discuss the impact of global political shifts, digital misinformation, AI-generated content, and audience distrust in traditional media systems. The seminar also addresses the physical, financial, and psychological pressures affecting journalists worldwide.

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Topics Covered During the Seminar

The programme will include discussions and workshops on:

• Geopolitical shifts and their impact on journalism
• Media trust and public confidence
• Misinformation and disinformation
• Political polarisation in the media
• Journalists’ safety and protection
• Financial sustainability in journalism
• Mental health and well-being for journalists
• Managing burnout, anxiety, and PTSD
• Fact-checking and news credibility in the AI era
• News fatigue among audiences and reporters
• Media challenges in Asia and Europe

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Benefits of the ASEF Journalists Seminar 2026

Selected participants will receive full financial support from ASEF. The programme covers:

• Return airfare from the participant’s home country to Thailand
• Accommodation during the seminar
• Seminar and lecture fees
• Course materials
• Administrative costs

Participants are encouraged to arrange their own travel insurance, including medical coverage and emergency assistance.

Eligibility Criteria for ASEFJS15

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Must be a journalist or media professional
• Must have at least two years of relevant professional experience
• Must be under 35 years old
• Must be proficient in English
• Must be in good health
• Must participate actively throughout the seminar programme
• Must be a citizen of one of the 51 ASEM partner countries

Who Can Apply?

The seminar is open to applicants from ASEM partner countries across Asia and Europe. Media professionals working in print, digital, broadcast, investigative journalism, multimedia reporting, and communication-related fields are encouraged to apply.

The programme is especially relevant for early-career journalists interested in international reporting, media ethics, fact-checking, political communication, and journalism policy.

Required Documents

Although ASEF has not published a detailed document checklist, applicants may be required to provide:

• Updated CV or professional profile
• Employment or journalism experience details
• Personal statement or motivation
• Contact information
• Proof of nationality
• English proficiency information, if requested

Applicants should carefully complete all sections of the official application form.

Application Process for ASEFJS15

Applicants must complete the online application form before the deadline.

Steps to Apply

1. Review the eligibility requirements
2. Prepare professional and personal information
3. Complete the official online application form
4. Submit the application before 31 May 2026 at 23:59 Singapore time

Official Application Link: https://asef.org/projects/15th-asef-journalists-seminar-asefjs15/

Application Deadline

Why the ASEF Journalists Seminar Matters

Global journalism continues to face challenges linked to misinformation, declining trust, digital disruption, and political instability. International journalism seminars such as ASEFJS15 provide opportunities for cross-border dialogue and professional collaboration.

The seminar also supports Sustainable Development Goal 16, particularly Target 16.10, which focuses on public access to information and the protection of fundamental freedoms.

Through workshops and regional discussions, participants will gain insights into journalism trends in Asia and Europe while building long-term professional networks.