Martin Roth-Initiative 2026 Application Deadline: September 11, 2026 (5:00 PM CEST)

Artists and cultural professionals facing threats because of their creative work can now apply for the Martin Roth-Initiative 2026 Temporary Relocation Programme. The initiative offers temporary relocation opportunities in Germany, allowing selected participants to continue their artistic and cultural activities in a safe and supportive environment. 

The programme is jointly implemented by the ifa (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen) and the Goethe-Institut, with funding from the German Federal Foreign Office. It aims to protect artistic freedom by supporting creatives whose work promotes democracy, human rights, freedom of expression, peace, and inclusion. 

About the Programme

The Martin Roth-Initiative provides temporary relocation opportunities for artists and cultural practitioners who are experiencing persecution, restrictions, or serious threats due to their artistic work or civic engagement.

Successful applicants will work alongside a host cultural organization in Germany, enabling them to continue developing their creative practice while expanding their professional network in a secure environment.

It is important to note that this is not an emergency assistance programme. Applications go through a competitive review process, and immediate relocation cannot be guaranteed. 

Programme Benefits

Selected participants will receive support that may include:

• Monthly financial stipend throughout the relocation period
• Funding to continue artistic or cultural projects
• Temporary placement with a recognized host institution in Germany
• Professional networking opportunities
• Safe working environment to continue creative practice
• Institutional support during the residency

The programme is designed to help artists continue contributing to society despite the challenges they face in their home countries. 

Who Can Apply?

Applications are welcome from artists and cultural practitioners worldwide who:

• Are committed to promoting freedom, democracy, peace, diversity, and an open society.
• Face threats, persecution, or restrictions due to their artistic or cultural work.
• Have an established record of professional artistic or cultural practice.
• Can demonstrate the social relevance of their work.
• Possess the language skills necessary to collaborate effectively with a host organization.
• Are currently living in their country of origin, have recently relocated, or remain in an unsafe environment. 

Application Requirements

Applications are submitted jointly by:

1. The Artist or Cultural Practitioner
2. A Host Organization in Germany

Both parties must submit separate application forms through the MRI application platform.

The host institution is also required to send a signed hard copy of its application after completing the online submission. 

Important Dates

How to Apply

Unlike many online programmes, access to the MRI application portal is provided only after requesting an account.

To begin your application:

1. Send an email requesting access to the application platform.
2. Specify whether you are applying as an artist or as a host organization.
3. If you are an artist, include the name of your intended German host organization.
4. If you are applying as a host, include the name of the artist you plan to support.
5. After verification, login credentials for the application platform will be sent to you by email. 

Application Page

Applicants can find complete programme information and begin the application process here:

Application Portal: Martin Roth-Initiative Application Page

For additional programme information:

Official Programme Website: Martin Roth-Initiative Official Website

Why You Should Apply

For artists working under difficult or dangerous circumstances, the Martin Roth-Initiative offers more than financial support. It provides a chance to continue creating meaningful work, build international collaborations, and develop professionally while benefiting from a secure environment.

If your artistic or cultural practice has exposed you to persecution or significant risk, this programme presents an opportunity to safeguard both your creative work and your professional future.

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