Summary
The European Parliament invites applications for the Sakharov Fellowship 2026, a fully funded program aimed at empowering human rights defenders from non-European countries. This two-week training program provides participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to advocate effectively for human rights on a global scale.
- 🎓 Program Overview: European Parliament Sakharov Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded, two-week in-person training program in Belgium for international human rights defenders.
- 🌍 Who Can Apply: Open to all nationalities, with a special focus on applicants from non-European (non-EU) countries.
- 🕊️ Purpose: Aims to strengthen the skills and impact of human rights defenders, not to reward past achievements like the Sakharov Prize.
- 🏛️ Host & Location: Organized by the European Parliament, held in Brussels and another EU member state.
- 📅 Duration & Intake: Runs for 2 weeks and selects up to 14 human rights defenders annually.
- 💼 Training Focus: Covers EU and international human rights frameworks, policies, and practical advocacy processes.
- 💰 Financial Coverage: Fully funded, including return airfare, free accommodation, daily living allowance, meals, and no application fee.
- ✅ Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have a strong background in human rights advocacy, high English proficiency, and relevance to the European Parliament’s current political agenda.
- 🖥️ Application Process: Applications must be submitted online.
- ⏰ Deadline: Last date to apply is 15 February 2026.
- 📢 Additional Info: The fellowship has been organized annually since 2016 under the Sakharov Prize Community initiative.
Designation
Sakharov Fellowship
Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Offered by | European Parliament |
| Duration | 2 Weeks |
| Scholarship Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Nationality | All Nationalities |
| Award Country | Belgium |
| Application Deadline | 15 February 2026 |
Research Area
Human Rights Advocacy and Training
Location
Brussels, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification
- Non-EU nationalities are eligible to apply.
- Applicants must have a solid background in human rights advocacy, either working with NGOs, other organizations, or independently.
- A high level of English proficiency is required to participate actively in the program.
- Selection will be based on the current political agenda of the European Parliament.
Description
The Sakharov Fellowship aims to strengthen the capacity of human rights defenders and facilitate their efforts to promote international human rights standards. Participants will receive comprehensive training on EU and international human rights frameworks, policies, and processes, enhancing their advocacy skills and strategies.
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online through the official application portal (link not provided here).
Last Date for Apply
15th February 2026
This fellowship is an excellent opportunity for individuals committed to advancing human rights worldwide. Don’t miss your chance to apply!
