Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship 2027

The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) invites democracy practitioners and scholars to spend five months in Washington, D.C. Fellows research democracy in a country or region. Applications close on 5 January 2027.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: National Endowment for Democracy, International Forum for Democratic Studies
• Funding: Monthly living stipend, roundtrip travel, and basic health insurance
• Duration: Five months in residence
• Location: Washington, D.C., USA
• Tracks: Practitioner and Scholarly
• Deadline: 5 January 2027; recommendation letters by 12 January 2027

Focus Areas

• Political, social, economic, legal, and cultural aspects of democratic development
• Strategies for building democracy abroad
• Original research for publication
• Comparative lessons across regions

About the Fellowship

The federally funded program hosts activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and scholars from around the world. NED calls it a “Democracy Accelerator”. It brings together a small, carefully chosen group of fellows. They incubate new ideas on defending freedom. Practitioners refine strategies for building democracy.

Scholars conduct original research. All fellows produce a written or audiovisual product. They also give a formal presentation at the end. Fellows join a global network of democracy advocates.

What Fellows Receive

• A monthly stipend, set to cover a furnished short-term rental, food, and local transport
• Roundtrip travel to and from Washington, D.C.
• Basic health insurance
• A J-1 visa for non-U.S. residents, with J-2 visas for family
• A place in a global democracy network
• NED does not state the stipend amount. Family travel costs are the fellow’s responsibility.

Who Can Apply

All applicants must meet these requirements:

• Show proficiency in English
• Propose a project on democratic development
• Work in residence in Washington, D.C., for the full period
• Hold no other fellowship or job during that time
• Practitioner track: Applicants need substantial experience promoting democracy or human rights. They should be mid-career professionals.
• Scholarly track: Applicants need a doctorate or academic equivalent. They also need a proven publication record and a detailed research outline.
• Former Reagan-Fascell fellows cannot apply again.

Required Materials

• Applicant information
• A project proposal for your chosen track
• Letters of recommendation
• A resume or CV and a biography
• Submit everything in English.

How to Apply

Create an account on the NED online portal. Then submit all four items before the deadline. Recommenders must send letters by 12 January 2027. Email fellowships@ned.org with questions.

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Conclusion

This fellowship gives democracy leaders and scholars funded time to research and connect in Washington. Eligible candidates should prepare their proposals and apply before 5 January 2027.

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