Germany – The Netherlands Journalist Exchange (JDN)
Since 1993, over 260 Dutch and German journalists have been given the opportunity to participate in an intensive exchange programme: Germany – The Netherlands Journalist Exchange (JDN).
Living and working in each other’s country for two months has enabled the participants to learn about each other’s media culture and gain insight into the other country’s social and political system.
∴ Contributing to understanding, a balanced view and personal growth
Living and working in each other’s country for two months has enabled the participants to learn about each other’s media culture and to gain insight into the other country’s social and political system. Research has shown that this results in a more realistic impression of the other culture, leading to more balanced reporting on the neighbouring country. With that result, the journalist exchange helps enrich journalism.
For the participants, the exchange often results in an internal or external promotion. Several former participants have become foreign correspondents; some have accepted a new challenge with their host medium; others have been given more responsibilities within their organisations.
Objectives of the JDN Journalist Exchange:
Improving quality
Increasing factual knowledge, perspective and network – those are the main objectives of JDN. To perfect the journalistic product and reporting on each other’s countries.
Building a network
Building a mutual network is one of the spearheads. For this reason, the kick-off is an induction seminar and the exchange has a joint conclusion.
Increasing understanding
The exchange of journalists increases mutual understanding. After the exchange, the contacts with the host medium were found to be a permanent enrichment.
Gaining inspiration
The new environment offers inspiration regarding new themes and a different journalistic approach. Enriched, the journalists continue their work in their own countries.
∴ Meines Holla & Partners organises the exchange
On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Meines Holla & Partners organises the exchange free of charge. Rob Meines is the general secretary. Thomas Boom leads and coordinates all activities relating to the exchange of journalists, with full responsibility for all programme components. He is the direct point of contact for the participants.