Organizer Information

The Martin Roth Initiative (MRI) is a joint project of the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) and the Goethe-Institut. It was established to respond to the increasing global pressure on artistic freedom, cultural expression, and civil society. Named after Martin Roth, a prominent cultural leader and museum director, the initiative supports artists and cultural practitioners who face threats, censorship, or persecution due to their work or socio-political circumstances. MRI focuses on temporary relocation, protection, and professional continuity, working closely with German host institutions to create safe environments where artistic and cultural work can continue. The initiative emphasizes values such as freedom of expression, democracy, diversity, and non-discrimination, and operates through several program lines addressing different needs and contexts.

Title & Description

Martin Roth Initiative – Application Programme Line 1 is an international open call offering temporary relocation support for artists and cultural actors at risk. This programme enables cultural institutions and organizations in Germany to host threatened artists and cultural practitioners, allowing them to continue their work in a secure environment. The programme supports artistic practice, research, networking, and professional development while fostering cultural exchange between the scholarship holder and the host organization. Funding can last up to 15 months and includes a monthly scholarship and individualized support measures. The programme is not designed as an emergency intervention but as a structured, medium-term opportunity for artists whose freedom of expression or personal safety is under threat.

Categories

Visual Arts, Performance, Dance, Music, Literature, Media Arts, Interdisciplinary Arts, Cultural Practice, Art Management, Research-based Artistic Practice.

Eligibility

  • Artists and cultural actors who apply together with a German host organization.

  • Must face threats, persecution, or severe restrictions on freedom due to artistic, cultural, or civil work.

  • Cannot hold secure residence or citizenship in EU/EEA countries, Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, Switzerland, UK, or the USA.

  • Must demonstrate ongoing professional activity, basic proficiency in English or German, and a commitment to democratic values.

  • Previous MRI scholarship holders are not eligible.

  • Applicants in Gaza are currently not considered.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Monthly scholarship for up to 15 months.

  • Individualized support including insurance, psychosocial support, language courses, networking, professional development, mentorship, and exchange opportunities.

  • Host organizations may receive funding for additional project-related personnel costs.

  • Support provided during visa application processes (work permits not guaranteed).

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

Applications must be submitted jointly by the artist or cultural actor and a German host organization through the Martin Roth Initiative application platform. Required materials include documentation of the applicant’s artistic or cultural practice, evidence of threats or restrictions related to their work or circumstances, and a project or cooperation concept developed together with the host organization. Both applications must be complete and submitted within the official call period to be considered.

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 20 February 2026
  • Hard copy submission Deadline: 6 March 2026
  • Selection announcement: April 2026
  • Earliest start date: 1 June 2026
  • Latest possible start date: 1 October 2026

Location

Germany

Additional Details

The programme is not an emergency funding mechanism and cannot accelerate visa procedures. Funding decisions are made by an independent selection committee and depend on available resources. Full participation and close collaboration with the host organization are required throughout the funded period. The host organization is responsible for supporting the integration and professional continuity of the scholarship holder during their stay.

Website Link: https://www.martin-roth-initiative.de/en/application-programme-line-1