The Hurford Youth Fellows Program 2027 for emerging youth Leaders (Fully Funded to Washington D.C., United States)

The Hurford Youth Fellows Program is a four-month residential fellowship in Washington, D.C., run by the International Forum for Democratic Studies at the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). It supports emerging youth leaders from around the world who are working to advance democracy and strengthen youth participation in civic life. The program brings together up to three fellows (ages 30 and under) to develop and work on projects addressing democratic challenges in their home countries or regions, while building networks with practitioners, government officials, civil society leaders, and other fellows in the United States. What you get • Monthly stipend for living expenses • Basic health insurance coverage • Roundtrip economy-class travel to and from Washington, D.C. • Furnished apartment rental covered • Participation in seminars, roundtables, field trips, and networking activities • Access to NED staff and core institutes • Collaboration with government, civil society, academic, and media communities How to apply 1. Visit the Online Application System 2. Create an account in the system 3. Submit application by November 30, 2026 4. Arrange for recommendation letters to be submitted by December 4, 2026 5. Contact fellowships@ned.org if you have questions

• Must be 30 years of age or younger • Must demonstrate commitment to and experience in advancing youth participation in democracy • Must be affiliated with or have experience in civic organizations, human rights groups, or democracy-strengthening initiatives • Must propose a project addressing a democratic challenge in applicant's country or region • Must complete at least one deliverable product (article, handbook, toolkit, podcast, tech tool, or video)