🔍
☰
Applications are currently being accepted for the Raoul Wallenberg Institute (RWI) Fully Funded Research Fellowship 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
Our Afghanistan programme aims to support Afghan scholars and professionals in continuing to pursue a career in human rights in the post-August 2021 setting. The programme also supports the development and publication of quality research outputs and other forms of public outreach and dialogue on human rights and gender equality issues in Afghanistan. RWI hosts and collaborates with the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan (hereafter “UNSR”), who since September 2022 is a Visiting Professor at RWI.
RWI’s Fellowships for Afghan scholars and professionals are a central component of our Afghanistan Programme. The purpose of the research Fellowships is to support Afghan researchers, scholars, and human rights practitioners in conducting research on key human rights and gender equality issues related to the situation in Afghanistan, with the aim of expanding and deepening the analytical knowledge base and informing public debate.
If you are selected for the RWI Fellowship, here is what your funding package includes:
This call for applications is open to all Afghan researchers and human rights professionals who meet the following eligibility criteria:
Afghan National;
Advanced degree in human rights or related area;
Extensive experience working academically and/or practically for/with human rights;
Ability to communicate professionally in oral and written English (proficiency in English demonstrated through certificates, sample texts and oral interviews with RWI) as well as in at least one Afghan national language;
Capacity to work full time on the research project and related tasks included in the fellowship for the entire duration of the fellowship. See further below regarding the requirements implied in accepting the fellowship.
In order to be considered, applications must include:
Title: A clear, concise title that reflects the focus of your research.
Introduction/Background: Briefly explain the background and rationale for your research topic.
Problem Statement: Identify the main issue or gap in the field that your research will address.
Relevance: Connect the problem to current debates, policies, or developments. Highlight why it is important in relation to the goals of the fellowship programme.
Research Objectives: Clearly state the objectives or aims of your research. These should align with the Fellowship's priorities and broader themes.
Research Questions: List the main research question(s) that will guide your work. Make sure they are focused, clear, and answerable within the scope of the Fellowship.
Proposed Methodology: Describe the methodology or approach you plan to use. Indicate how you will collect data (e.g., interviews, surveys, archival research). Explain how you will analyse the data or information gathered.
Expected Outcomes: Outline the expected results or contributions of your research.
The recommended length of your concept note is 800-1500 words.
A personal statement in support of your application (maximum 800 words) outlining your motivation for applying, and how your research interests, expertise and experience align with the aims of RWI’s Afghanistan programme and Fellowships;
A CV (maximum 3 pages);
Optional annex to applications:
Application deadline is 12 July 2026. Applicants can expect to be notified of the selection in August 2026.
Apply for RWI Fully Funded Research Fellowship
