Application Deadline: November 30, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2027 Hurford Youth Fellows Program. The Hurford Youth Fellows Program equips emerging democracy leaders from around the world with the skills, networks, and practical tools to turn youth energy into democratic change. Over the course of four months in Washington, D.C., fellows explore new ideas, initiatives, and innovations, share experiences and lessons learned with activists from other countries, and contribute to the global youth movement for democracy.
The International Forum for Democratic Studies at the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) invites emerging youth leaders from around the world to apply for the 2027 Hurford Youth Fellows Program in Washington, DC.
Fellowship Dates and Selection: Up to three (3) fellows will be selected for a four-month fellowship, from May 1 through August 31, 2027.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must be 30 years of age or younger and demonstrate a commitment to—and experience in—advancing youth participation in democracy.
- Applications are especially encouraged from leaders affiliated with civic organizations, human rights groups, and initiatives working to strengthen democracy.
Fellowship Project:
Fellows pursue a project addressing a democratic challenge in their country or region and its implications for young people. Projects may explore the political, social, economic, legal, or cultural dimensions of democracy and draw on a range of methods and innovative approaches. They should reflect applicants’ interests and expertise. A study of, or comparison with, democracy in the United States is not expected.
In consultation with Fellowships staff and other NED colleagues, fellows develop a tailored plan of action focused on a key challenge, such as countering authoritarian influence, navigating the opportunities and risks of digital technology, or translating youth mobilization into democratic gains. Their work should identify practical approaches and explore how lessons from one context might apply elsewhere.
Program Details:
NED staff work with fellows to refine their project’s focus, scope, and intended outcome. Each fellow must complete at least one product, such as an article, handbook, toolkit, podcast, tech tool, or video. Products may be created in English or another language.
Fellows participate in seminars, roundtables, field trips, and other activities that help them:
- learn about NED and its core institutes
- explore pressing challenges and new approaches to advancing democracy
- connect with government, civil society, academic, and media communities in Washington and beyond
- build relationships and exchange ideas with other fellows.
Financial Support:
- Each fellow receives a monthly stipend for living expenses, basic health insurance coverage, and roundtrip economy-class travel to and from Washington, D.C., at the beginning and end of the fellowship.
- Stipends are calculated to cover a short-term furnished rental apartment, food, local transportation, and other necessities.
- Fellows who bring family members are responsible for their dependents’ roundtrip travel and living expenses in the United States.
How to Apply:
Visit the Online Application System to create an account and apply. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].
Deadlines:
- Applications: November 30, 2026
- Recommendation Letters: December 4, 2026
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Hurford Youth Fellows Program
