Reagan–Fascell Democracy Fellows Program 2026–27 | Fully Funded Fellowship in Washington, D.C.

The Reagan–Fascell Democracy Fellows Program, hosted by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), is one of the world’s most respected fellowship programs for leaders committed to advancing freedom, democracy, and human rights. Each year, the program brings democracy advocates, scholars, journalists, civil society leaders, and social innovators to Washington, D.C. for a five-month residency dedicated to research, learning, and professional exchange.

Designed to support individuals who are shaping democratic change in their countries, the fellowship provides a unique platform to reflect, write, learn, and collaborate with global experts working at the forefront of democratic development.

 What Is the Reagan–Fascell Democracy Fellows Program?

This prestigious program offers a fully funded five-month residential fellowship at NED’s International Forum for Democratic Studies in Washington, D.C. Fellows spend their time conducting independent research and engaging with practitioners, scholars, and thought leaders who are working on democracy-related issues worldwide.

The fellowship encourages deep exploration of ideas, critical challenges, and solutions that can strengthen democratic institutions and civic participation. Fellows also participate in workshops, public presentations, and tailored study visits in the United States.

 Fellowship Tracks

The program offers two specialized tracks, allowing applicants to choose based on their background and professional goals.

Practitioner Track

This track is designed for:

• Civil society leaders
• Activists
• Journalists
• Human rights defenders
• Social entrepreneurs
• Leaders from emerging or aspiring democracies

A formal academic degree is not required. Instead, applicants must have substantial practical experience working on issues related to democracy and human rights.

Scholarly Track

This track is ideal for:

• Professors
• Researchers
• Analysts
• Public intellectuals

Applicants must have a PhD (or equivalent academic qualification) and a strong record of publications on democracy-related topics.

 What Fellows Do During the Program

During the five-month residency in Washington, D.C., fellows:

• Conduct independent research on a democracy-related topic of their choice
• Write analytical papers, reports, articles, or develop toolkits
• Participate in seminars, roundtables, and learning sessions
• Engage with U.S. institutions and organizations
• Network with global democracy advocates
• Present their findings at a public forum

The program encourages innovation, interdisciplinary thinking, and collaboration.

 Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the fellowship, applicants must:

• Demonstrate professional or academic experience relevant to democracy, governance, civil society, or human rights
• Have strong English-language skills
• Commit to a full-time, five-month residency in Washington, D.C.
• Submit a clear and compelling project proposal
• Be individuals (not organizations)

Past fellows are not eligible to apply again.

 Fellowship Schedule

The program is offered twice each year:

• Fall Session: October 1 – February 28
• Spring Session: March 1 – July 31

Applicants must choose their preferred session during application.

 Fellowship Benefits

The Reagan–Fascell Democracy Fellows Program is fully funded and includes:

Monthly Stipend

Covers housing, food, transportation, and living expenses.

Round-Trip Travel

Flights to and from Washington, D.C. are provided.

 Insurance

Basic health insurance is included during the residency.

Office Space

Fellows receive a fully equipped private office at NED.

Research Support

Access to academic resources, libraries, databases, and travel funds for approved U.S.-based study visits.

Visa Support

Non-U.S. applicants receive assistance for a J-1 exchange visitor visa.

Application Process

The application includes:

• Personal information
• Project proposal
• CV or resume
• Biography
• Letters of recommendation

Applications must be submitted online and in English.

After submission, shortlisted candidates undergo interviews or additional review before final selection.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Reagan–Fascell Democracy Fellows Program is more than a residency — it is an incubator for global democratic innovation. Fellows join a distinguished global network of leaders advancing freedom and civic engagement in their home countries.

For activists, scholars, and innovators striving to strengthen democratic values, this fellowship provides:

• Time to think deeply
• Space to create
• Access to global expertise
• International visibility
• A lifelong network of colleagues