Understanding the BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship 2026

The BRAC Social Empowerment and Legal Protection (SELP) Programme is offering a significant opportunity for young legal professionals through its Legal Fellowship 2026. This 12-month program is designed to provide hands-on experience in crucial areas of legal practice, including legal aid, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and case management. Aspiring lawyers will work closely with experienced legal practitioners within BRAC’s field offices across Bangladesh, contributing to access to justice initiatives and supporting vulnerable communities. The fellowship aims to strengthen practical legal skills while offering a deep dive into community justice and social empowerment efforts.

About the BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship

The core purpose of the Legal Fellowship 2026 is to equip emerging lawyers with practical, on-the-ground experience. Participants will engage directly with BRAC’s legal teams and panel lawyers, gaining firsthand exposure to the complexities of case management and the delivery of legal services at the grassroots level. This immersive experience is tailored for individuals interested in legal empowerment and the various mechanisms used to resolve disputes outside of traditional court proceedings. The program emphasizes learning by doing, allowing fellows to contribute meaningfully to BRAC’s mission of promoting justice.

Fellowship Structure and Details

This fellowship is structured as a 12-month contractual engagement, with fellows stationed at BRAC field offices located outside of Dhaka. A total of 20 positions are available for the 2026 cohort. The program offers a structured learning environment where fellows receive supervision and a detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) from the SELP programme. Upon successful completion of the fellowship, participants will be awarded an official certificate by the SELP programme, a valuable credential for their future legal careers.

Scope of Work for Fellows

Fellows participating in the BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship will undertake a variety of responsibilities designed to provide comprehensive practical training. A primary focus will be on gaining practical exposure to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods, understanding their application in community settings. They will also learn about Bangladesh’s legal aid systems and the intricacies of case management processes, observing and assisting in real-time scenarios. Collaboration with BRAC’s panel lawyers and other legal professionals is a key component, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship 2026, candidates must meet specific educational and professional criteria. Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from a recognized university. Additionally, candidates must be affiliated with a BAR Association as an advocate. While a minimum of one year of legal practice in an affiliated BAR is preferred, it is not a mandatory requirement, opening the door for promising recent graduates to apply.

Required Application Documents

Prospective fellows must prepare and submit a comprehensive set of documents to support their application. This includes a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) that highlights both educational achievements and any relevant legal experience. Applicants will also need to provide the contact details of two referees who can attest to their professional capabilities. Copies of all academic certificates and professional certificates are mandatory, ensuring that all qualifications are properly documented for review by the selection committee.

Benefits of the Fellowship

The BRAC SELP Legal Fellowship 2026 offers numerous advantages for early-career legal professionals. It serves as a valuable platform for building essential practical legal skills in a real-world setting. Fellows gain direct experience in legal aid services and the application of ADR systems, which are critical components of accessible justice. The opportunity to work on actual case management processes provides invaluable learning. Furthermore, the fellowship helps expand professional networks within the legal sector and allows participants to contribute meaningfully to justice and social empowerment initiatives in Bangladesh.

About BRAC and its SELP Programme

BRAC stands as one of the world’s largest international development organizations, with a broad operational scope spanning education, healthcare, livelihoods, gender justice, and legal empowerment. Within this extensive framework, the Social Empowerment and Legal Protection (SELP) Programme plays a vital role. The SELP Programme is dedicated to improving access to justice and ensuring legal protection for vulnerable populations throughout Bangladesh, addressing systemic barriers and providing support where it is most needed.

Application Deadline and Submission

Aspiring candidates must be mindful of the application deadline for the Legal Fellowship 2026. The final date to submit all application documents is June 8, 2026. It is strongly encouraged that interested applicants prepare and submit their application materials well in advance of this date to avoid any last-minute issues. The application process typically involves submitting the required documents through an online portal or via email, as specified in the official application announcement.

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