The Sakharov Fellowship Programme is an international research fellowship hosted in Belgium. This programme is a great opportunity for individuals who want to conduct research, gain new knowledge, and build professional experience for free. Participants will learn new skills, gain practical research exposure, and use this experience to improve their academic and professional future.

The Sakharov Fellowship is a special training programme by the European Parliament. It is for human rights defenders from countries outside the EU. Each year, up to 14 people are chosen to join this programme.

The training lasts for two weeks. It takes place in Brussels and also in another EU country. The programme has been running every year since 2016. It was created after an idea from the Sakharov Prize Community during the 25th anniversary of the Sakharov Prize.

This fellowship is not a prize and it is not given for past success. Its main goal is to teach skills and build capacity so that human rights defenders can create positive change in their countries.

Sakharov Fellowship Programme Details

• Programme Name: Sakharov Fellowship Programme
• Host Country: Belgium
• Year: 2026
• Programme Dates: 7 June to 20 June 2026
• Eligibility: Open to applicants from all countries, including Afghanistan
• Gender: Male and Female
• Registration Deadline: Mid-February 2026

Sakharov Fellowship Programme Benefits

• Free university
• Free accommodation
• Free airfare

Eligibility for the Sakharov Fellowship Programme

• Any non-EU country can apply
• Interested in working in organizations
• Also have worked with organizations
• Have good English language skills

What documents are required for registration?

• Online application form
• Motivation letter
• References

How to register for the Sakharov Programme

To register, go to the following link https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/1c11f1e8-1844-90e1-9144-62aec54cf9c6. Later, there you can fill in an online application form. After filling in the online application form, add your motivation letter and references and submit the application.

FAQ

What is the Sakharov Fellowship Programme?
It is a short training programme in Belgium.

Who can apply?
People from non-EU countries. Men and women can apply.

What are the benefits?
Free university, free housing, and free airfare.

What documents are needed?
Online form, motivation letter, and references.

How do I apply?
Fill the online form and submit before mid-February 2026.

For more information and to register, visit the official Sakharov Program website.

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