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National Endowment for Democracy (NED) is currently accepting applications for the Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program 2026-2027. Interested candidates are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply with it.
Opportunity Details
The program offers five-month fellowships for practitioners to improve strategies and techniques for building democracy abroad and five-month fellowships for scholars to conduct original research for publication. While in residence, fellows reflect on their experiences; engage with counterparts; conduct research and writing; consider best practices and lessons learned; and develop professional relationships within a global network of democracy advocates. Fellows are expected to complete a written or audiovisual product relating to their proposed research project. The fellowship culminates in a formal presentation in which fellows typically focus on their research project or another topic relating to the state of democracy in their country.
Financial Support
Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
Basic health insurance provided.
Roundtrip travel to and from Washington, D.C. at the start and end of the fellowship.
Stipend is calculated to cover a short-term furnished rental, food, local transport, and necessities.
Professional Resources
Fully equipped office space at NED.
Limited budget for professional travel within the U.S. and long-distance calls.
Access to the Democracy Resource Center, housing ~20,000 works on democracy (books, journals, reports).
Research & Networking
Assigned research associates to support fellows with projects, writing, and presentations.
Opportunities to engage with governmental, nongovernmental, academic, and media communities in Washington, D.C.
Participation in seminars, roundtables, and field trips to deepen knowledge and build networks.
Social & Cultural Activities
Informal activities such as trips to sporting events, museums, movies, and happy hours.
Promotes collegiality and community among fellows.
Limited budget for professional travel within the U.S. and long-distance calls.
Access to the Democracy Resource Center, housing ~20,000 works on democracy (books, journals, reports).
All applicants should:
-Demonstrate proficiency in the English language
-Propose a project focusing on the political, social, economic, legal or cultural aspects of democratic development
-Be available to work in residence at the International Forum for Democratic Studies in Washington, D.C. during the 5 month fellowship period (October 1-February 28 or March 1-July 31). No other fellowships or jobs may be held at this time.
Applicants on the practitioner track should:
-Have substantial practical experience working to promote democracy or human rights in their country of origin or interest
-Be mid-career professionals
Applicants on the scholarly track should:
-Possess a doctorate (a Ph.D., or academic equivalent) at the time of application
-Have a proven record of publications in their field
-Have developed a detailed research outline for their fellowship project
To apply, you must first create an account through an online portal. Once you have set up an account, the application process requires you to submit:
Submit all application materials in English.
