Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
The SAFE Haven Fellowship for Scholars at Risk, hosted by the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS), provides a five-month fully supported academic refuge for researchers, journalists, writers, and artists facing threats or displacement. The fellowship offers a secure environment, monthly stipend, research facilities, and academic community access to help fellows maintain professional continuity and academic freedom.
The SAFE Haven Fellowship for Scholars at Risk is a temporary academic refuge designed to support scholars whose work, identity, or personal circumstances place them at risk in their home countries.
Hosted by the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS), the fellowship enables displaced or threatened intellectuals to continue their research, writing, teaching, and public engagement in a safe, independent, and internationally respected academic environment in the Netherlands.
About the Netherlands Institute for Advanced Study (NIAS)
NIAS is an internationally renowned research institute that brings together scholars from around the world to pursue advanced, curiosity-driven research.
Through the SAFE Haven Fellowship, NIAS demonstrates its long-standing commitment to:
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Academic freedom
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Protection of scholars at risk
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International solidarity
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Preservation of intellectual and professional continuity
What Is the SAFE Haven Fellowship?
The SAFE Haven Fellowship is a short-term, non-employment academic fellowship designed to provide stability, time, and resources during periods of displacement or heightened risk.
It does not lead to long-term residence in the Netherlands and is not a degree programme or formal employment contract.
Fellowship Duration and Timeline
Each SAFE Haven Fellowship lasts five months.
Fellowships run during one of the following periods:
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September to January
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February to June
These fixed terms allow fellows to plan research and writing activities within a defined, supportive timeframe.
Who Is Eligible?
The SAFE Haven Fellowship is open to individuals whose professional or personal circumstances place them at risk.
Eligible applicants include:
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Established academic researchers
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Journalists
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Writers
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Artists
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Intellectuals facing threats due to political, legal, social, or security-related reasons
Applicants must demonstrate both risk status and professional engagement in research, scholarship, or intellectual work.
What the Fellowship Provides
Academic and Research Support
Fellows receive full access to NIAS facilities and community, including:
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A dedicated office at NIAS
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Access to research resources and libraries
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Participation in the NIAS scholarly community
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Invitations to academic events and seminars
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Daily communal lunches that foster intellectual exchange
Financial Support
Each fellow receives:
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€3,500 monthly stipend to support living expenses
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Reimbursement of outward and return international travel costs
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Coverage of commuting travel expenses, or
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Subsidised accommodation in Amsterdam, where applicable
Travel and Visa Support
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Fellows organise and undertake their own travel arrangements
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NIAS reimburses travel costs after completion
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In cases where independent travel is restricted, NIAS may provide assistance
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Fellows are responsible for applying for visas and work permits if required
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NIAS provides an official letter of invitation and supports the permit application process
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Local travel costs related to visa and permit procedures may be reimbursed
What the Fellowship Does Not Include
It is important to understand the limits of the SAFE Haven Fellowship.
The fellowship:
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Is temporary and does not guarantee long-term residence
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Does not constitute employment or a scholarship
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Does not include social insurance, pension, or unemployment benefits
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Does not offer degree programmes or PhD supervision
How the Fellowship Works
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Eligible scholars are identified and selected based on risk status and professional background
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Fellows are hosted at NIAS for a five-month period
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During the fellowship, participants focus on research, writing, or intellectual work
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Fellows engage with the NIAS academic community while maintaining professional independence
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At the end of the term, fellows return or transition according to their personal circumstances
Why This Fellowship Matters
The SAFE Haven Fellowship plays a critical role in protecting global knowledge and academic freedom.
Its impact includes:
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Preserving threatened research and intellectual work
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Preventing forced academic silence or career disruption
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Supporting freedom of expression and inquiry
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Maintaining international scholarly networks during displacement
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Enabling continued contribution to public discourse
By offering time and security, the fellowship ensures that risk does not erase scholarly voices.
Common Considerations for Applicants
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The fellowship is short-term and not a resettlement programme
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Applicants should plan clear research or writing goals for the five-month period
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Visa and permit requirements vary by nationality
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Fellows must be able to work independently without formal employment status
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The stipend is intended for living costs, not institutional funding
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the SAFE Haven Fellowship?
The fellowship lasts five months, either from September to January or from February to June.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Established researchers, journalists, writers, and artists who are at risk due to their work or circumstances are eligible.
Is the fellowship considered employment?
No. The SAFE Haven Fellowship is not an employment relationship and does not include employment benefits.
What financial support is provided?
Fellows receive a €3,500 monthly stipend, travel reimbursement, and commuting or accommodation support.
Does NIAS help with visas and permits?
Yes. NIAS provides a formal invitation letter and supports the permit application process, though fellows must apply themselves.
Can the fellowship be extended?
No. The fellowship is temporary and does not offer long-term residence or extension by default.
Does the fellowship include family support?
The provided information does not specify family support. Applicants should plan independently for dependents.
Conclusion
The SAFE Haven Fellowship for Scholars at Risk at NIAS offers a vital academic lifeline for threatened scholars and intellectuals worldwide. By combining financial support, institutional resources, and a vibrant scholarly community, the programme safeguards academic freedom and ensures that research, creativity, and critical thought can continue—even in times of displacement and risk.
For more information, visit NIAS.
