Deadline: 15-Feb-2026
The European Parliament Sakharov Fellowship provides up to 14 human rights defenders from non-EU countries with a two-week intensive training in Brussels and another EU location. The program focuses on capacity-building, advocacy skills, and networking, enabling participants to better promote and protect human rights in their countries. The fellowship covers travel, accommodation, and living expenses, with applications closing 15 February 2026.
Overview
The Sakharov Fellowship is a training program offered by the European Parliament for human rights defenders from non-EU countries. Unlike the Sakharov Prize, it does not recognize achievements, but rather develops the skills and networks of defenders to enhance their human rights work.
Key goals:
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Strengthen advocacy and professional capacities of participants
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Foster connections with EU institutions and Brussels-based human rights networks
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Support long-term impact through peer-to-peer knowledge sharing
Fellowship Structure
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Duration: Two weeks
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Locations: Brussels and another EU Member State
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Participants: Up to 14 human rights defenders selected annually
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Activities include:
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Intensive workshops on EU human rights mechanisms
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Meetings with European Parliament officials and institutional actors
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Networking opportunities with practitioners and experts
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Development of advocacy and professional skills
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Benefits
Selected Fellows receive:
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Return travel from their country of residence
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Accommodation during the program
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Daily living allowance
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Membership in the Sakharov Community of human rights defenders for ongoing support and networking
Sakharov Community Role
Fellows continue to:
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Maintain links with the European Parliament and EU Delegations
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Share best practices and provide peer-to-peer support in their regions
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Act as multipliers, strengthening human rights advocacy networks
Eligibility
Applicants must:
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Be from a non-EU country
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Demonstrate a proven record in human rights advocacy, through NGOs, other organizations, or individual work
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Possess a high level of English for full participation
Application Process
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Submit the online application with evidence of human rights work
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Applications close 15 February 2026 (CET)
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Successful candidates are notified by 9 March 2026
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Unsuccessful applicants will not receive individual feedback
Why It Matters
The Sakharov Fellowship empowers human rights defenders to:
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Expand their knowledge of EU human rights mechanisms
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Strengthen networks with peers and practitioners
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Increase the effectiveness of advocacy efforts in their home countries
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Contribute to positive systemic change in human rights promotion and protection
FAQs
1. Is the fellowship an award for past achievements?
No, it focuses on capacity-building and training, not recognition.
2. Who can apply?
Human rights defenders from non-EU countries with proven experience in advocacy.
3. What costs are covered?
Return travel, accommodation, and a daily living allowance.
4. Can I participate if I am not fluent in English?
No, high proficiency in English is required.
5. How are fellows selected?
Selection is based on advocacy experience, impact potential, and alignment with program goals.
6. Will unsuccessful applicants receive feedback?
No, due to the high volume of applications.
7. When will the fellowship take place?
Exact dates are confirmed after selection, but it lasts two weeks in Brussels and another EU country.
Conclusion
The Sakharov Fellowship is a unique opportunity for human rights defenders from non-EU countries to gain practical skills, institutional knowledge, and professional networks that directly strengthen their advocacy work. By participating, fellows not only enhance their capacity to promote human rights locally but also become part of a global community of defenders, fostering long-term collaboration and positive change across regions. This program is ideal for committed advocates seeking both skill development and meaningful international engagement.
For more information, visit European Parliament.