Call for Researchers: 2026 State of Media Development Report

DW Akademie invites researchers globally to contribute to the upcoming 2026 State of Media Development Report. This initiative offers a platform to work with DW Akademie and produce evidence-based insights into current media trends, challenges, and trajectories across the world.

Selected researchers will play a key role in shaping the narrative and analysis of media development in their regions or thematic foci, engaging closely with DW’s editorial and research teams and feeding into a globally respected publication.

Eligibility

• Researchers, academics, media analysts, or practitioners with proven experience in media studies, journalism, communication, or related fields.
• Strong track record in publishing or conducting empirical or policy-oriented media research.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a collaborative environment.

What You’ll Gain / Your Role

• Opportunity to co-author regional or thematic chapters in the 2026 State of Media Development Report.
• Collaboration with DW Akademie’s research and editorial team, gaining exposure and recognition in the media development community.
• Contribution to shaping global discourse on media freedom, sustainability, digital transformation, and media ecosystems.
• Visibility in an authoritative report circulated among policy makers, academia, civil society, and media organizations.

Themes & Focus Areas

• Media freedom, pluralism, and regulation
• Digital transformation and convergence
• Media viability and business models
• Journalism quality, ethics, and innovation
• Audience behavior and media consumption
• Technology, AI, and platform regulation
• Media in fragile or transitional societies

Deadline: October 24, 2025