Deadline: 26 January 2025
The European Parliament’s Sakharov Fellowship is a two-week intensive training program aimed at empowering human rights defenders from non-EU countries. Since 2016, this initiative has provided an annual platform for selected defenders to enhance their knowledge of human rights frameworks and build their advocacy capacities.
The 2025 edition will take place in person in Brussels and Venice, combining academic learning with practical tools and opportunities for networking with EU institutions and global human rights advocates.
Program Highlights
Brussels Segment
- Focus on EU policies, tools, and mechanisms supporting human rights defenders.
- Workshops on communication, advocacy strategies, and accessing funding.
- Meetings with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), EU officials, and Brussels-based NGOs.
- Space for individual advocacy and networking.
Venice Segment
- Academic lectures on international human rights law, instruments, and mechanisms.
- Case studies and practical tools for defending human rights on the ground.
- Interaction with Sakharov Prize laureates, leading academics, and human rights practitioners.
Benefits for Sakharov Fellows
- Training: Build capacities to advocate for human rights and drive change effectively.
- Networking: Engage with EU institutions, NGOs, and members of the Sakharov Community.
- Sustainability: Join the growing network of Sakharov Fellows, share best practices, and continue liaising with EU Delegations in respective countries.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must:
- Have a proven track record of campaigning for human rights (in a personal or organizational capacity).
- Be fluent in English (to actively participate in discussions and workshops).
- Represent diverse geographical areas and human rights issues (ensuring gender balance is also prioritized).
Fellowship Coverage
The fellowship includes:
- Return travel from the country of origin.
- Accommodation in Brussels and Venice.
- A daily living allowance.
Application Process
- Submit your application through the online form here.
- Prepare to attach:
- A detailed CV.
- Supporting documents showcasing your human rights work.
- Ensure submission before the deadline: 26 January 2025 (CET).
Successful candidates will be notified by 4 March 2025. Unfortunately, unsuccessful applicants will not receive feedback.
2024 Fellowship Highlights
Last year’s fellowship brought together defenders from 14 countries. Fellows engaged with EU institutions, Sakharov laureates, and global advocates to discuss pressing issues, such as:
- The situation in Gaza (Special Session in Brussels).
- Women’s rights in Iran (Roundtable in Venice).
Prominent voices like Nasrin Sotoudeh (2012 Sakharov Prize laureate) and recent fellows shared their insights, inspiring the next generation of defenders.
Join the Sakharov Fellowship 2025 to enhance your advocacy skills, grow your network, and amplify your impact in the fight for human rights worldwide. For further details please see the Fellowship website.
