The European Parliament’s Sakharov Fellowship applications are open for human rights defenders from non-EU countries. This opportunity is a two-week intensive training in Brussels, which will take place at the Global Campus of Human Rights in Venice. Under the Sakharov Fellowship training program, human rights defenders will:

• Improve their knowledge of EU and international human rights frameworks, mechanisms, and policies
• Develop advocating capacities for and effect positive change to protect human rights.
• The Fellows will help grow the network of Sakharov Fellows to share best practices, spread the acquired knowledge, and cover awareness of the Sakharov Prize and the Sakharov Community.
• Maintain connections with the work of the European Parliament and continue bridging with EU Delegations in their respective countries.

The Brussels initiative focuses on EU tools and regulations that support human rights defenders, access to funds, communication skill development, and raising awareness of the unique security threats that these defenders face. Furthermore, the fellows will meet with legislators, EU institution representatives, and NGOs based in Brussels. The Fellows will also have an opportunity for personal networking and advocacy activities.

The Global Campus of Human Rights (GCHR) in Venice offers training that combines academic instruction on international human rights law, mechanisms, instruments with case studies, and practical tools to help human rights defenders do their jobs better and bring change. Prominent academics, leaders of top human rights NGOs, Sakharov Prize winners, and other renowned human rights practitioners are among the lecturers.

Important Dates and Details

Application Deadline: 8 October 2023 (CET)

Result Notifications: 17 November 2023

Fellowship Dates: 4-16 March 2024

Organizer: European Union Parliament

Field: Human Rights

Number of Opportunity: 14 HR Defenders

Fellowship Duration: Two weeks

Location: Brussels and Venice

Benefits of the Sakharov Fellowship

Under the Sakharov Fellowship training program, human rights defenders will:

• Improve their knowledge of EU and international human rights frameworks, mechanisms, and policies
• Develop advocating capacities for and effect positive change to protect human rights.
• The Fellows will help grow the network of Sakharov Fellows to share best practices, spread the acquired knowledge, and cover awareness of the Sakharov Prize and the Sakharov Community.
• Maintain connections with the work of the European Parliament and continue bridging with EU Delegations in their respective countries.

Requirements and Criteria

In-person Sakharov Fellowship training program planning will occur in Venice and Brussels. It might be converted to an online format based on the sanitary conditions. Candidates should meet the following criteria:

• Candidates should have a track record of advocating for human rights, whether through an NGO, another organization, or their individual initiative.
• They must speak English well enough to participate in and follow discussion groups and seminars in Brussels and Venice.
• In addition to the above requirements, the selection team will consider gender balance, the representation of a diversity of geographical areas, and human rights issues to choose the Fellows.

How to Apply for the Sakharov Fellowship?

To apply for the Sakharov Fellowship 2024, applicants should meet the above general requirements and complete the online application form by midnight 8 October 2023 (CET).

Before applying, please make sure that it is complete and correct. Please note that you cannot modify it online after submitting it.

Apply Now

Please visit the European Parliament’s official website for further information about the Sakharov Fellowship.

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