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In the heart of Berlin, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation continues its mission to nurture future journalists through the Journalistic Training (JONA) program, a tradition that began in 1979. Around 140 scholarship holders, hailing from various cities across Germany, are currently immersed in the program, honing their skills in print, radio, television, and multimedia.

The JONA program offers a comprehensive learning experience, with practical training and theory seminars led by experienced journalists. Internships are a significant part of the program, allowing participants to apply and deepen their knowledge in real-world settings.

Meanwhile, the foundation has also released a video book about the life of Konrad Adenauer, the program's namesake and a prominent figure in German history. This immersive experience provides a detailed account of Adenauer's life, from his tenure as Cologne's Mayor, his time in Nazi imprisonment, his role as the Founder of the Federal Republic, and his service as the first Chancellor of West Germany from 1949 to 1963.

The video book is rich in archive films, visual documents, extensive accompanying texts, and original sources, offering viewers a deeper engagement with Adenauer's biography. It is available for download or launch in a web browser.

Freedom of the press and opinion is a cornerstone of democracy, yet in many parts of the world, media freedom is threatened by government restrictions. The Konrad Adenauer Foundation stands as a beacon for independent and free media, supporting journalists both in Germany and abroad.

The foundation's International Media Program aims to foster an independent and free media landscape, as well as professional and value-oriented political communication between citizens and politically responsible parties. It also awards the German Local Journalist Award to journalists and editorial teams who have made outstanding contributions to German local journalism.

For those interested in interviews or background discussions, including with the foundation's chairman, Prof. Dr. Norbert Lammert, contact requests should be directed to the press office at [email protected]. The foundation can also be reached at its physical address, Konrad Adenauer Foundation e.V., Press and Public Relations, Klingelhoferstr. 23, 10785 Berlin.

The Konrad Adenauer Foundation is more than just a service for journalists; it is a hub for information about its diverse work and a facilitator of contacts with experts worldwide. Whoever wants to promote democracy must also promote the work of independent and free media.