The Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027 is an exciting international fellowship opportunity for young leaders, democracy advocates, and youth activists from around the world. Organized by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), the program invites emerging youth leaders to spend four months in Washington, D.C., USA, working on projects that promote democracy, civic participation, and youth engagement.

The fellowship is an excellent opportunity for young professionals and activists who want to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their international networks, and contribute to democratic development in their countries and communities.

Financial Benefits

The Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027 provides financial support to selected participants to help them undertake their fellowship in the United States. The benefits include:

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
• Basic health insurance coverage.
• Round-trip economy-class airfare to and from Washington, D.C.
• Financial support calculated to cover furnished accommodation, food, local transportation, and other essential living expenses.

Please note that fellows bringing family members must cover their dependents’ travel and living expenses.

Fellowship Activities and Focus Areas

During the four-month fellowship, participants will work on individual projects addressing important democratic challenges in their countries or regions. Fellows will also participate in seminars, roundtables, field trips, and networking activities.

The program focuses on areas including:

• Strengthening youth participation in democracy.
• Building connections between youth activists and civil society organizations.
• Technology, artificial intelligence, and democracy.
• Promoting civic engagement and democratic reforms.
• Developing innovative approaches to youth leadership and political participation.

Participants will also collaborate with NED staff, exchange ideas with international activists, and develop practical projects or resources such as articles, toolkits, podcasts, and videos.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027:

• Applicants must be 30 years old or younger.
• Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to advancing youth participation in democracy.
• Relevant experience in democracy promotion, civic engagement, or youth activism is expected.
• Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals affiliated with civic organizations, human rights groups, and democracy-focused initiatives.

Candidates from all countries are welcome to apply.

Application Deadline

The deadline to submit applications for the Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027 is November 30, 2026. Recommendation letters must be submitted by December 4, 2026.

How to Apply?

Interested applicants should visit the official NED website and complete the online application process. Applicants should prepare an original fellowship project proposal highlighting a democratic challenge in their country or region and explaining how their proposed work could contribute to meaningful change.