Are you a young democracy activist looking to expand your leadership skills and network with like-minded individuals worldwide? Do you seek to contribute to global democratic movements and improve organizational talents? The Hurford Youth Fellows Program offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders to immerse themselves in a rich learning environment while actively participating in the democratic process.

This program stands out because it emphasizes practical engagement and strategic learning. During the three-month fellowship, participants will conduct research and engage in activities that promote civic space for young people, counter disinformation, build citizen-centric accountability, and deliver Democracy. This comprehensive approach ensures fellows gain valuable insights and skills to apply in their home countries and communities.

The fellowship is hosted by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) and supported by the Hurford Foundation and the World Movement for Democracy, committed to promoting Democracy globally. The program aims to harness the potential of young activists and empower them to become catalysts for democratic change, making it an invaluable experience for those dedicated to advancing Democracy.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: July 31, 2024
• Fellowship Term: March 1 – May 31, 2025
• Organized by:  World Movement for Democracy
  Host Organization: National Endowment for Democracy (NED)
• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Youth activists affiliated with civil society organizations
• Field: Democracy activism, civic engagement, countering disinformation, citizen-centric accountability
• Study Level: Non-academic fellowship
• Duration: 3 months
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: United States (Washington, D.C.)

Benefits and Financial Aids

Hurford Youth Fellowship will cover the following costs and expenses:

• Monthly Stipend to cover living expenses
• Basic health insurance
• A roundtrip travel to Washington, D.C., and back home
• Fully equipped with internet and email access
• Access to the Democracy Resource Center (DRC) and other local libraries
• Networking opportunities with democracy activists and experts globally
• Participation in strategic meetings, research, and public presentations
• A limited budget for long-distance phone calls.
• The International Forum for Democratic Studies aids fellows in obtaining visas by assisting them with the necessary paperwork.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must be no older than 30 years of age.
• Prove a strong interest in democratic activism and advancement in their communities and worldwide.
• Affiliation with civil society organizations is highly encouraged.
• Working knowledge of English is required.
• The program is open to applicants from any country.
• The program does not support university or graduate students seeking financial aid for academic purposes or professional training programs.

Fellows’ Activities

Fellows will be responsible for the following activities during their fellowship:

• Research one topic linked to the Democracy mentioned above themes.
• Create online resources, such as a library of related books and training materials.
• Facilitate online debates and discussions.
• Become a part of the World Movement’s social media posts.
• Participate in the design and implementation of other World Movement events.
• Participate in pertinent Washington, D.C. events and discussions to better grasp issues and develop professional ties.
• Recognize, compile, present, and creatively share discussion materials and outcomes.

Required Documents

The application has four sections, and all candidates should submit these documents as part of their application package:

• Applicant Form
• Project Proposal (Max. 1200 words)
• CV/Resume
• Two Letters of Recommendation

Selection Process

Below is the selection procedure highlights:

• Selection by the World Movement Secretariat staff, the Hurford Youth Fellowship Alumni Network, and NED regional program staff
• Criteria include demonstrated activism or interest in Democracy and clearly describing how the fellowship will benefit their efforts.
• Fellows must work full-time on their projects at the NED office in Washington, D.C.
• Fellows cannot hold other fellowships or employment during the fellowship period without permission.

Proposal Guide

The applicant’s proposal is very important and must correspond to one of the following themes of the fellowship:

1. Expanding Civic Space for Young People
2. Countering Disinformation
3. Building Citizen-Centric Accountability
4. Delivering Democracy

Important Notes

Any other information the referees feel is important to share concerning the candidate.

Please make sure to respond to the following particular questions in your proposal:

• What is your proposed research topic for your fellowship project based on the three democratic themes listed above?
• What are three specific questions that your study topic will attempt to answer?
• How will the outcomes of your research and project (white paper, research essay, video series, toolkit, and more.) help to advance democratic actions and initiatives in your region and around the world?
• What would you do to help the World Movement for Democracy’s Youth initiatives flourish further?

For the Letter of Recommendation, the referees’ comments must be on the following:

• The period and context in which the referee has known the applicant.
• Referees’ opinion of the applicant’s background, qualifications, accomplishments, and experiences.
• They appraise the proposed project and the applicant’s ability to complete it on time.
• Referees’ views on the suitability of the applicant and their project to the Hurford Youth Fellows Program.

How to Apply?

• Step 1: Complete the Applicant Form, which includes Personal Information, Project Proposal, C.V./Resume, and Letters of Recommendation.
• Step 2: Submit all application materials via the application portal by the July 31, 2024 deadline.
• Step 3: Ensure that your project proposal aligns with one of the following themes: Expanding Civic Space for Young People, Building Citizen-Centric Accountability, Countering Disinformation, and Delivering Democracy.
• Step 4: Referees will receive an automated email to upload recommendation letters directly to the portal.
• Step 5: Await the selection process and prepare for the fellowship term starting on March 1, 2025.

Apply Now

For any technical issues or further information, contact the World Movement for Democracy Secretariat at youthfellows@ned.org or visit www.movedemocracy.org.

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