The European Parliament Sakharov Fellowship 2026, a fully financed, two-week in-person training program for applicants from non-European nations, is currently accepting applications. There is no application cost, and the fellowship will take place at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium.
Participants can fully concentrate on their education and career development because all significant costs are paid, including round-trip overseas flights, lodging, meals, and local transportation. The curriculum is especially intended for civil society actors, human rights defenders, and activists who actively work to advance and defend human rights.
Fellows will acquire hands-on experience in European Union and international human rights frameworks, policies, and advocacy mechanisms through expert-led sessions, workshops, and direct interaction with EU institutions. Additionally, the fellowship offers beneficial networking opportunities with international human rights practitioners, experts, and politicians.
Host Country: Brussels, Belgium
Hosted By: Monash University
Opportunity Type: Fellowship
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Program Objectives
- Skill development: Enhancing the advocacy, leadership, and strategic capacities of human rights defenders.
- Legal knowledge: Delivering in-depth training on European Union and international human rights laws, frameworks, and mechanisms.
- Institutional exposure: Providing direct insight into how the European Parliament promotes and protects human rights worldwide.
- Networking opportunities: Linking fellows with the Sakharov Community, EU officials, and fellow practitioners to foster long-term collaboration.
- Knowledge transfer: Preparing participants to share expertise, train others, and strengthen human rights work in their home countries.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidates from non-European nations are eligible to apply for the fellowship.
- Relevant Experience: Candidates must show that they have a solid track record of advocating for human rights, whether through individual work, an organization, or an NGO.
- Language Requirement: To participate fully in conversations and program activities, a high degree of English fluency is necessary.
- Selection Criteria: The European Parliament’s current political agenda is taken into consideration when choosing candidates.
Benefits:
- Round-trip international airfare: Complete reimbursement for travel expenses from the participant’s home country to Brussels, Belgium.
- Accommodations: All-inclusive, complimentary housing for the whole fellowship.
- Daily living allowance: A sum of money given to cover daily costs like meals, local transit, and needs.
Deadline: 15th February 2026
