Are you a young professional interested in foreign policy and looking to enhance your writing skills? Do you wish to publish articles on the most popular international outlets? The Rising Experts Program offers a unique opportunity for emerging voices to gain the editorial support needed to improve their analytical writing and showcase their expertise.

This year-long initiative, hosted by Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP), is designed to help underrepresented professionals enhance their writing and analytical skills and publish articles in high-profile outlets to make a strong work portfolio. With guidance from experienced editors, participants in the program will have the opportunity to publish op-eds, analysis pieces, and more while building their credentials in the foreign policy space.

Outlets featuring the program’s work include Foreign Policy, The Diplomat, World Politics Review, Geopolitical Monitor, Inkstick Media, Haaretz, and YPFP’s in-house publication, Charged Affairs.

This program could be perfect for you if you’re passionate about foreign policy and want to make your voice heard.

What do the YPFP Rising Experts do?

As a YPFP Rising Expert, you’ll join a select group of dedicated individuals worldwide, enhancing your expertise and sharing insights with policy audiences. Through a collaborative writing process with editorial support, you’ll produce, pitch, and publish quality analyses in national and international outlets to build your voice and credibility.

15-20 candidates are chosen based on their academic and professional interest in their chosen field, demonstrated through resumes, cover letters, and writing samples. Regional and functional experts should know their area and have a strong track record of engagement in their region or thematic focus.

Key Details and Dates

• Applications Open: November 15, 2024
• Application Deadline: December 15, 2024
• Funding Type: Unpaid, part-time
• Organizer: Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP)
• Eligible Countries: All
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Young professionals, early-career individuals, or graduate students
• Focus Area: Foreign Policy, International Relations, Geostrategy, Economics, and Human Rights.
• Study Required: Bachelor’s degree or higher
• Number of Opportunities: 15-20
• Duration: 1 year
• Program Language: English
• Host Country: Online

Benefits

The Rising Experts Program offers several benefits to participants:

• Editorial Support: Participants receive guidance from experienced editors to refine their writing.
• Publication Opportunities: Rising Experts can publish in high-profile outlets like Foreign Policy, The Diplomat, and Haaretz.
• Networking: Access to YPFP’s global network, helping build valuable connections with foreign policy and international relations professionals.
• Skill Development: Enhance your writing and analytical skills through feedback and collaboration with other experts.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet these requirements:

• Applicants should have completed a Bachelor’s degree; a graduate degree is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Prove at least two years of professional experience in the chosen focus area.
• Have strong writing skills, particularly in short-form analysis (op-eds, articles).
• Demonstrated interest in foreign policy and the selected regional or functional area of expertise
• Ability to dedicate approximately five hours per week to the program

Desired Skills and Experience:

Additionally, applicants must meet these desired skills and experience:

• Strong foundation in international relations, international affairs, or foreign policy
• Minimum of two years’ work experience in your focus area, with proven interest
• Published work in your area of expertise
• Excellent writing skills and ability to analyze and discuss field-specific issues
• Proficiency in English; additional relevant language skills are a plus
• Independence, reliability in meeting deadlines, and commitment to program growth
• Creative approach to foreign policy topics for unique and compelling content

Roles and Responsibilities

The Expert’s activities and responsibilities are as follows:

• Publish one 600-1200 word analytical article every two months, such as op-eds, book reviews, or interviews.
• Meet publishing deadlines and maintain professional communication with YPFP staff.
• Collaborate with fellow Rising Experts, offering feedback and occasionally co-authoring articles.
• Lead at least one YPFP Discussion Group meeting related to your expertise, sharing recent publications or gathering feedback for future topics.

Rising Expert Areas of Expertise

Applicants must demonstrate experience in one of the following areas:

• Regional Areas:
  • Africa
  • Asia-Pacific
  • Eastern Europe
  • Europe
  • Latin America
  • Middle East
• Functional Areas:
  • Defense
  • Economics
  • Energy
  • Global Health
  • Geostrategy
  • Human Rights
  • International Development
  • National Security

Required Documents

Please prepare and submit these documents:

• Cover Letter: Explaining your interest in the program and your proposed article themes.
• Resume/CV: Detailing relevant experience and qualifications.
• Short Answer Responses: To demonstrate your motivation and suitability.
• Writing Sample: A non-academic writing sample (no longer than three pages) related to your selected focus area.

How to Apply?

• Gather your cover letter, CV, short answer responses, and writing sample.
• Visit the YPFP website and submit your application using the link below by the deadline (December 15, 2024).
• Successful applicants will receive notification about their selection and next steps.

Apply Now

Further details and information regarding the Rising Experts Program are available on the official YPFP website.

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