The Sakharov Fellowship 2026 is open to human rights defenders from non-EU countries, offering a unique opportunity to take part in a two-week intensive training programme in Europe. The fellowship is organised by the and is designed to strengthen the skills, networks, and impact of individuals working to promote and protect human rights in challenging environments.
The empowering programme has been organised annually since 2016, following an initiative taken by the Sakharov Prize Community at the 25th Anniversary Conference of the Sakharov Prize. Each year, up to 14 human rights defenders are selected to participate in the fellowship, which takes place in Brussels and at another location in an EU Member State.
About the Sakharov Fellowship
Unlike the Sakharov Prize, which recognises outstanding achievements in the field of human rights, the Sakharov Fellowship is not an award. Instead, it focuses on capacity development. The main objective of the fellowship is to equip human rights defenders with practical tools and knowledge that enable them to advocate more effectively and create positive, lasting change in their communities.
The programme is structured to address both professional and personal challenges faced by human rights defenders, especially those working under pressure or in restrictive environments.
Programme Structure and Learning Focus
The fellowship provides participants with an in-depth induction into EU policies and mechanisms that support human rights defenders globally. It also offers first-hand insight into how human rights work is carried out within the European Parliament and the broader European Union framework.
Key components of the programme include:
- Meetings with Members of the European Parliament
- Engagements with officials of EU institutions
- Interaction with the Brussels-based human rights community
- Workshops led by experienced human rights practitioners and experts
Training Areas
Throughout the two-week programme, fellows will take part in targeted workshops and sessions covering critical areas of human rights work, including:
- Communication and advocacy
- Security and safety
- Disinformation
- Resilience and well-being
- Documentation of human rights violations
- Individual advocacy, networking, and communication activities
These sessions are designed to provide practical skills that fellows can apply directly in their ongoing work.
Post-Fellowship Engagement
After completing the programme, fellows become part of the European Parliament’s Sakharov Community of human rights defenders. As members of this community, they are expected to maintain links with the European Parliament and continue liaising with EU Delegations in their respective countries. Beyond the training period, fellows are encouraged to act as multipliers by sharing best practices, supporting peers, and strengthening human rights networks at local and regional levels.
Selection Criteria
Candidate selection is based on clear criteria to ensure diversity and representation. The process prioritises gender balance and aims to reflect a broad range of human rights issues and geographical areas, in line with the political priorities of the European Parliament.
Applicants must:
- Have a proven record of campaigning for human rights
- Work within an NGO, organisation, or in an individual capacity
- Possess a high level of English to actively follow and contribute to the programme
Fellowship Coverage and Timeline
The fellowship fully covers return travel from the country of residence, accommodation during the programme, and a daily living allowance.
Applications close at midnight on 15 February 2026 (CET). Successful candidates will be notified by email no later than 9 March 2026. Due to the high volume of applications, unsuccessful candidates will not receive individual feedback.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should complete the official application form using the link below.
Link to Apply: APPLY HERE
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