Call for Applications: re:constitution Fellowship Program

The re:constitution Fellowship is a Europe-wide programme supporting early- and mid-career scholars and practitioners working on democracy and the rule of law.

Running from October 2026 to July 2027, the Fellowship offers funded mobility tracks, interdisciplinary exchange, and independent research opportunities, with stipends of up to €2,500 per month.

Applications close on 5 March 2026 at 12:00 noon CET.

Programme Overview

The re:constitution Fellowship is a pan-European programme designed to support professionals working on constitutional democracy, democratic governance, and the rule of law in Europe.

It brings together scholars and practitioners from diverse disciplines and professional backgrounds to strengthen democratic principles, encourage cross-border mobility, and foster collaboration between academia and practice.

The Fellowship promotes freedom, equality, and human dignity as shared European values while building a long-term, sustainable professional network.

Core Objectives of the Fellowship

The programme is built around several interconnected goals.

These include strengthening democracy and the rule of law in Europe, encouraging pan-European mobility, fostering interdisciplinary debate, and supporting collaboration between academic research and real-world practice.

The Fellowship also aims to promote shared European values and create a durable community of experts engaged in constitutional democracy.

Fellowship Duration and Structure

The Fellowship runs from October 2026 to July 2027.

To accommodate different professional and personal circumstances, it is offered through two distinct tracks with flexible mobility options.

Track 1: Full-Time Fellowship

Track 1 is open to both scholars and practitioners.

It offers a six-month full-time mobility period divided between two host institutions in different countries.

One host must be an academic institution, while the second must be practice-oriented, such as a public institution, NGO, think tank, or similar organisation.

This track is designed to deepen links between theory and practice across borders.

Track 2: Practitioner Fellowship

Track 2 is open exclusively to practitioners.

It offers two flexible options at a single host institution outside the Fellow’s country of residence.

Applicants may choose either a three-month full-time mobility period or a six-month part-time mobility period.

This track is intended for professionals who need flexibility while remaining actively engaged in their professional roles.

Financial Support and Benefits

The Fellowship provides monthly stipends based on participation mode.

Full-time Fellows receive €2,500 per mobility month.

Part-time Fellows under Track 2 receive €1,250 per mobility month.

In addition to financial support, Fellows benefit from funded mobility, collaboration with European host institutions, interdisciplinary exchange, professional development opportunities, and access to a long-term alumni network.

Programme Activities and Expectations

Participation in programme activities is mandatory.

Fellows must attend exchange meetings held in Berlin, online, and at a European location outside Germany.

They are also required to participate in the online Fellow Talk series, where they present and discuss their research or practice-based projects.

Each Fellow is expected to complete an independent project and publish at least one outcome, such as an academic article, policy paper, report, or public-facing commentary.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

The Fellowship is open to both scholars and practitioners working on democracy and rule of law issues.

Eligible scholars include those holding or completing a PhD in disciplines such as law, political science, social sciences, or philosophy.

Eligible practitioners include government officials, legal professionals, NGO and think tank experts, journalists, and policy or legal researchers.

Applicants must be residents of eligible European or associated countries for the duration of the Fellowship, but citizenship is not required.

Why the re:constitution Fellowship Matters

Democracy and the rule of law face increasing challenges across Europe.

The re:constitution Fellowship responds to these challenges by supporting independent research, cross-border learning, and collaboration between theory and practice.

By investing in early- and mid-career professionals, the programme strengthens Europe’s democratic infrastructure and contributes to more resilient constitutional systems.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the official online application platform.

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

1. A curriculum vitae

2. A project outline describing the proposed research or practice project

3. A short abstract

4. References

5. Proposed host institutions

All documents must comply strictly with the specified length requirements.

Only one application per person is permitted, and incomplete or non-compliant applications will not be considered.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is 5 March 2026 at 12:00 noon CET.

Late submissions will not be accepted.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants are advised to clearly articulate the relevance of their project to democracy and the rule of law.

Strong proposals demonstrate a clear connection between academic insight and practical impact, justify the choice of host institutions, and show how the Fellowship will contribute to the applicant’s long-term professional development.

Clarity, feasibility, and alignment with the programme’s objectives are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the re:constitution Fellowship?

It is a Europe-wide Fellowship supporting scholars and practitioners working on democracy, constitutionalism, and the rule of law.

2. How long does the Fellowship last?

The Fellowship runs from October 2026 to July 2027, with mobility periods depending on the selected track.

3. What funding does the Fellowship provide?

Full-time Fellows receive €2,500 per mobility month, while part-time Fellows receive €1,250 per mobility month.

4. Who can apply?

Early- and mid-career scholars and practitioners working on democracy and rule of law issues and residing in eligible European or associated countries can apply.

5. Is citizenship required?

No. Residency in an eligible country during the Fellowship period is required, but citizenship is not.

6. Are publications required?

Yes. Fellows must publish at least one outcome, such as an academic paper, policy brief, report, or public commentary.

7. How many applications can one person submit?

Only one application per person is allowed.

Conclusion

The re:constitution Fellowship 2026–2027 offers a unique opportunity for scholars and practitioners to advance independent work on democracy and the rule of law while engaging in meaningful European collaboration.

Through funded mobility, interdisciplinary exchange, and a strong professional network, the Fellowship supports impactful work that contributes to a more democratic and resilient Europe.