The Refugees International Refugee Fellows Program for 2026-2027 offers a fully funded chance for refugee leaders and advocates to make a real difference. This global opportunity provides $15,000 in support to help displaced people shape policy and humanitarian work. Applications are open now, and it targets those with direct experience in refugee issues.
About the Refugee Fellows Program
The Refugee Fellows Program runs for a full year and connects participants with Refugees International. Fellows work alongside experts to create policy reports, opinion pieces, advocacy campaigns, research missions, and talks on global humanitarian topics. It focuses on practical action, not just theory, so participants can influence real change in areas like displacement and migration.
Who Can Apply
This program welcomes refugees, forcibly displaced people, and advocates who work with these communities. Humanitarian professionals focused on displacement also qualify. Applicants need to show active involvement in refugee advocacy, human rights, or community aid.
Priority goes to people from regions with major displacement challenges. These include Africa, such as Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Other key areas are the Middle East like Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine; Asia including Afghanistan and Myanmar; and Latin America such as Colombia, Mexico, and Costa Rica. Still, it is open to applicants from all countries.
Key Eligibility Requirements
To apply, candidates must meet clear standards. They need a strong record in refugee or displacement advocacy, plus ongoing work in humanitarian or community efforts. A clear plan for fellowship goals is required.
Some groups cannot apply. These include people employed by government institutions, United Nations agencies, or philanthropic foundations.
Other needs include access to a computer and stable internet, since the program is remote. Fellows commit up to 7 hours per week. English skills are preferred, but other languages help too. A valid bank account is needed for payments.
Fellowship Benefits
Fellows receive strong support in many ways. The main perk is a $15,000 grant, paid out quarterly to fund their projects.
They gain exposure through talks with policymakers and events at global forums. Training covers public speaking, advocacy plans, fundraising, and communication.
Networking opens doors to humanitarian leaders worldwide. Fellows can join research trips, publish papers or reports, and get mentorship from pros. Peer learning adds to the growth.
Fellowship Responsibilities
Once selected, fellows must stay active. They attend meetings and training, publish at least one major piece of writing, and join advocacy campaigns or events. Contributions to research and team projects with Refugees International are expected.
Application Process
Start by gathering required items: a completed form, two essays of up to 400 words each, an updated CV, three references, and a one-year work plan.
The process includes shortlisting and panel interviews from May to July 2026. Apply through the official link provided by Refugees International.
Important Deadline
Submit applications by April 30, 2026. This program equips leaders to drive policy changes and support communities effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Refugee Fellows Program?
Refugees, forcibly displaced people, advocates, and humanitarian professionals with experience in refugee issues can apply, especially from high-displacement areas like Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America.
What are the main benefits of the fellowship?
Fellows get a $15,000 grant, training in advocacy and speaking, networking with leaders, and chances to publish work and join events.
What do fellows need to do?
Fellows must attend meetings, publish at least one piece of writing, join campaigns, and contribute to research, committing up to 7 hours per week.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by April 30, 2026, through the official Refugees International link.
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