| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host: | Interpeace and the Geneva Graduate Institute |
| Eligible Countries: | All Countries |
| Reward: | Monthly stipend, accommodation support, mentorship, institutional placement, leadership training, networking opportunities |
| Deadline: | 7 June 2026 at 11:59 PM CET |
| Application Link: | Click Here to apply |
| Scholarship Alerts: | To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, Click HERE |
Applications are now open for the International Geneva Peace Fellowship Programme 2026/2027, a prestigious leadership initiative designed to nurture the next generation of professionals in peacebuilding and humanitarian diplomacy. The programme is a collaborative partnership between Interpeace and the Geneva Graduate Institute, with generous support from the Foundation for the Adaptation of International Geneva.
As global conflicts and humanitarian challenges continue to evolve, the International Geneva Peace Fellowship Programme seeks to empower emerging and mid-career professionals with the knowledge, practical experience, and networks needed to develop innovative solutions for peace and international cooperation.
During its pilot phase, the programme will support 10 outstanding fellows who will participate in a fully immersive nine-month residential programme in Geneva, Switzerland, from September 2026 to June 2027. The fellowship aims to strengthen Geneva’s role as a global center for peacebuilding while creating a network of future leaders committed to advancing peace and humanitarian diplomacy worldwide.
Table of Contents
International Geneva Peace Fellowship Programme Overview
The fellowship combines residential learning, institutional placements, leadership development, mentorship, and collaborative research. Fellows will live and work in Geneva while engaging with leading organizations and experts in the international peace ecosystem.
Residential Programme
Selected fellows will be accommodated at the historic Domaine Barton, located on the shores of Lake Geneva. Throughout the programme, participants will collaborate on practical and forward-looking projects that address pressing global issues related to peacebuilding and humanitarian diplomacy.
The programme also includes visits, networking events, learning exchanges, and collaborative forums across International Geneva, providing fellows with valuable exposure to key actors in international affairs.
Institutional Collaboration and Placements
An important component of the fellowship is the institutional placement. Fellows will be embedded within partner organizations working in peace and humanitarian diplomacy for the duration of the programme.
Participants will work on projects aligned with their expertise while gaining hands-on experience and professional exposure. Fellows will also receive mentorship from experienced practitioners and have access to valuable professional networks and policy forums.
Leadership Development, Research and Co-Creation
The fellowship begins with an intensive one-week training programme focused on strengthening leadership skills, analytical capacity, and practical expertise in peace and humanitarian diplomacy.
Throughout the fellowship, participants will develop strategic ideas and initiatives while working alongside leading organizations and experts in their chosen thematic area.
Thematic Areas
Applicants are expected to contribute to practical projects and develop innovative ideas within one of the following themes:
- The new frontier of peacemaking
- Health and peace
- Ecumenical peacebuilding and faith-based diplomacy
- Youth leadership, participation, and peacebuilding
- Protection of civilians and contemporary conflict dynamics
- Women, peace and security and inclusive peacebuilding
Eligibility Requirements for International Geneva Peace Fellowship
The International Geneva Peace Fellowship Programme welcomes applications from individuals who meet at least one of the following categories:
Recent Graduates
- Master’s degree graduates in peace-related studies, social sciences, political science, international relations, or related fields who completed their studies within the last 12 months.
- Advanced PhD candidates transitioning into policy-oriented or practice-based careers.
Junior Professionals
- Professionals with 1–4 years of relevant work experience.
Mid-Career Professionals
- Professionals with 5–10 years of experience seeking to advance their careers in peace and humanitarian diplomacy.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Exceptional leadership potential in policy or practice.
- Experience in peacebuilding, humanitarian diplomacy, international affairs, social movements, or related fields.
- Strong analytical, research, writing, and communication skills.
- Fluency in English and/or French.
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural environments.
- Adaptability and flexibility across different working contexts.
- Availability to participate in the full nine-month residency programme in Geneva.
Fellowship Benefits of International Geneva Peace Fellowship
Selected fellows will receive several benefits, including:
- A monthly stipend (subject to Swiss social security regulations).
- Administrative assistance for work permits and related documentation.
- Opportunity for accommodation at Villa Barton, subject to availability.
- Access to mentorship from senior practitioners and experts.
- Participation in conferences, networking events, learning exchanges, and field visits.
- Long-term professional development opportunities within the global peace and humanitarian sector.
Partner Institutions
During the fellowship period, participants may be placed within leading organizations, including:
- Interpeace
- The Geneva Graduate Institute
- The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue
- The Kofi Annan Foundation
- Centre for Civilians in Conflict
- World Council of Churches
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications through the official application portal and provide the following documents:
- A Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages).
- A Cover Letter (maximum one page or approximately 500 words) outlining:
- Preferred thematic area.
- Relevant leadership experience and suitability for the fellowship.
- Strategic idea or initiative they intend to develop during the programme.
Applications will be assessed based on leadership potential, professional experience, and alignment with the fellowship’s goals and thematic priorities.
Conclusion
The International Geneva Peace Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 presents an exceptional opportunity for emerging and mid-career professionals who are passionate about peacebuilding, humanitarian diplomacy, and global leadership. Through world-class mentorship, institutional placements, leadership training, and exposure to Geneva’s international ecosystem, fellows will gain the experience and networks needed to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
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