How we work: joining forces with our partners

As an organization, we are constantly learning and developing our methods as well as supporting our partners to do so too. We work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams and are increasing our technological expertise. In this, we are guided by the following principles:

• We promote lifelong learning, together with our partners, for the digital world
  Fostering freedom of expression and information in a digital world requires all stakeholders to engage in constant learning and to innovate. DW Akademie accepts this challenge. We encourage our teams and our partners to adopt new digital approaches, explore innovative technologies and actively reflect on their experiences. The knowledge and expertise of our staff is accessible to all. We provide our staff and partners with participatory learning opportunities and support the acquisition of digital media and information literacy skills both inside and outside of the organization.

• We make use of DW's expertise
  As an integral part of Germany's international broadcaster, we carry DW's expertise and experience into the world and make it available to our partners.

• We engage with new kinds of partners
  Internet activists and non-governmental organizations are relevant and active players in the public sphere. DW Akademie partners with stakeholders from civil society, business and government, as well as global and regional initiatives and networks.

• We adapt our methods to an evolving digital landscape
  DW Akademie trains its staff and partners so that they are able to deal with a constantly evolving digital environment. As such, we are continuously adapting our methods. We have a process-oriented approach to capacity building and use a diversity of methods. We strengthen innovation and evaluate the methods used in society, government and business to navigate digital transformation.

• We embrace knowledge sharing and transparency
  Openness and transparency are essential pillars of our work. We make knowledge easily accessible to our partners, target groups and our own staff. We actively document our work for external use. We exchange ideas with our partners and learn from each other. We create networks with our partners and the expert community. We make data and information accessible and explain the motives and objectives of our work. We publish our media studies, evaluations and data, when possible, under a Creative Commons license and in open formats.

• We develop and facilitate dialogue
  We support our partners in advancing dialogue and debate about the future of the Internet. We develop our partners' ability to interact and communicate with technology companies and public bodies. We see ourselves as independent facilitators of dialogue and of decision-making processes. We especially encourage partnerships among initiatives in the global south and the strengthening of a social dialogue on human rights.

DW Akademie's digital strategy is dynamic. Together with our partners, we will continue to develop our strategy in response to a constantly changing digital world.

Read more about DW Akademie's digital vision:

Part 1. Advancing freedom of expression in a digital world
How can we advance freedom of expression in the digital world? For DW Akademie, that's a key question. Its Digital Vision seeks an answer by focusing on people and their fundamental human rights.

Part 2. What we envisage: Advancing all human rights

DW Akademie puts people and people's fundamental human rights at the center of its activities, with particular emphasis on enabling marginalized groups and communities to claim and exercise their rights.

Part 3. What we do: Skillfully navigate digital transformation

DW Akademie strengthens human rights, fosters a vibrant public sphere and supports participation for all. According to its public service mandate, DW Akademie, together with its partners, supports the development of free and transparent media systems.