Applications are open for the Future Leaders Program 2026 in Hungary – Fully Funded. This is a fall edition scheduled from 1st September to 30th November 2026.

Are you passionate about international relations, diplomacy, foreign policy, and global affairs? The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) is now accepting applications for its prestigious Future Leaders Program 2026 Fall Edition. This fully funded international fellowship offers young graduates and emerging professionals an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in foreign policy research, work alongside leading experts, and develop leadership skills in the heart of Europe.

About the HIIA Future Leaders Program

The Future Leaders Program is a flagship fellowship organized by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA), one of Hungary’s leading foreign policy think tanks. The program is designed to nurture the next generation of policymakers, diplomats, researchers, and international affairs professionals by providing practical exposure to policy analysis, strategic research, and international relations.

Selected fellows will work under the guidance of experienced researchers and policy experts, contribute to ongoing research projects, participate in professional seminars, and gain direct insights into the world of diplomacy and foreign policy.

Program Details

• Host Organization: Hungarian Institute of International Affairs
• Location: Budapest
• Program Duration: 3 Months
• Program Dates: 1 September – 30 November 2026
• Language: English
• Participation Mode: In-person
• Weekly Commitment: Approximately 30 hours per week
• Application Deadline: 30 June 2026

Fellowship Benefits

The HIIA Future Leaders Program offers substantial support to selected participants. International fellows who do not have residency in Hungary may receive:

• Round-trip international travel support
• Monthly accommodation contribution
• Assistance with visa procedures
• Professional mentorship from foreign policy experts
• Access to leadership, public speaking, and media training
• Opportunities to participate in high-level policy discussions
• Networking with diplomats, researchers, and policymakers
• Hands-on experience in international affairs research

Research Areas

Participants will have the opportunity to conduct research in one of HIIA’s strategic priority areas.

Regional Studies

• Western Balkans
• Eastern Europe
• Transatlantic Relations
• Asia-Pacific
• Middle East
• Visegrád Cooperation
• Turkic States

Thematic Studies

• Security Policy
• European Union Affairs
• Energy Policy
• Connectivity
• Cultural Diplomacy
• Multipolarity
• Global Geopolitical Issues

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Future Leaders Program 2026 Fall Edition, applicants must:

• Be under 30 years of age
• Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree
• Demonstrate a strong interest in international relations and foreign policy
• Possess excellent English language proficiency
• Be available for full-time participation in Budapest during the program period
• Have an academic background in fields such as:
  • International Relations
  • Political Science
  • Diplomacy
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Related disciplines may also be considered

Required Documents

Applicants must submit all documents in English:

1. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
2. Cover Letter (maximum 1 page)
3. Writing Sample (3,000–5,000 characters)
4. Proof of English Language Proficiency (minimum C1 level)

Selection Process

The selection process consists of two stages:

Application Evaluation

Applications will be reviewed based on academic achievements, analytical ability, research potential, and motivation to contribute to international affairs and policy discussions.

Interview Stage

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in interviews with HIIA experts and researchers. Final selections will be based on overall performance throughout the application and interview process.

Why Should You Apply?

The HIIA Future Leaders Program is more than a fellowship—it is a gateway to a career in diplomacy, public policy, international organizations, think tanks, and global governance. Participants gain practical research experience, develop leadership capabilities, build an international professional network, and contribute to meaningful policy discussions affecting global affairs.

For students, recent graduates, and young professionals interested in shaping the future of international relations, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from experts while living and working in one of Europe’s most dynamic policy environments.