Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028. The Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program 2027–2028 offers an opportunity to spend five months in Washington, D.C., conducting independent research, exchanging ideas with international professionals and developing practical approaches to democracy-related challenges.
The programme is hosted by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) through its International Forum for Democratic Studies.
Selected fellows undertake independent projects examining political, social, economic, legal or cultural aspects of democratic development. Participants also engage in seminars, workshops, professional exchanges and activities designed to strengthen their understanding of democracy and democratic institutions.
The fellowship provides a monthly living stipend, basic health insurance, round-trip travel to Washington, D.C., and a fully equipped office. Programme staff also provide research, writing and editorial support.
The programme is particularly intended for practitioners from developing and aspiring democracies and non-democratic countries. It also welcomes distinguished scholars from the United States and other established democracies through the Scholarly Track.
Applications for the 2027–2028 fellowship are open. Interested applicants should prepare their project proposals, CVs, biographies and recommendation letters before the official deadlines.
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program 2027–2028: Quick overview
| Fellowship detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellows Program |
| Fellowship year | 2027–2028 |
| Host organisation | National Endowment for Democracy |
| Host department | International Forum for Democratic Studies |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Duration | Five months |
| Fellowship tracks | Practitioner Track and Scholarly Track |
| Main focus | Democracy, human rights, governance and democratic development |
| Financial support | Monthly living stipend |
| Additional benefits | Basic health insurance and round-trip travel |
| Research support | Research, writing and editorial assistance |
| Office | Fully equipped office provided |
| Application deadline | 5 January 2027 |
| Recommendation letters deadline | 12 January 2027 |
| Application language | English |
About the National Endowment for Democracy
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The National Endowment for Democracy, commonly known as NED, is an organisation that supports democratic development internationally.
Its fellowship programmes provide opportunities for individuals to explore democratic challenges, exchange knowledge and develop ideas that can contribute to democratic progress.
The Reagan-Fascinell fellowship is hosted by NED’s International Forum for Democratic Studies, which provides an environment for research, professional exchange and discussion of democratic developments around the world.
The programme is named in honour of former US president Ronald Reagan and the late congressman Dante Fascell, two of NED’s principal founders.
Since its establishment in 2001, the programme has hosted hundreds of fellows from countries around the world.
The fellowship brings together people with different professional experiences and perspectives, creating opportunities to examine democratic challenges in a comparative and international context.
What is the Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellowship?
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellows Program is a five-month international fellowship that allows selected participants to conduct independent research and develop professional skills related to democracy.
During the programme, fellows work on projects concerning democracy in a particular country, region or field of expertise.
The programme is designed to support:
- Independent research and writing
- Professional development
- Democracy and human rights advocacy
- Exchange of ideas
- International networking
- Comparative learning
- Practical approaches to democratic development
Fellows are expected to complete a written or audiovisual project related to their research.
The final product may take the form of an article, report, handbook, toolkit, podcast, video or another agreed format.
The fellowship also culminates in a formal presentation in which participants share their research or discuss a topic related to democracy in their country or field.
Fellowship tracks
Applicants can apply through one of two tracks.
1. Practitioner Track
The Practitioner Track is designed for experienced professionals working to promote democracy or human rights.
It is particularly relevant to individuals who have developed practical experience in civil society, advocacy, journalism, democratic institutions or related areas.
The programme is intended primarily for practitioners from developing and aspiring democracies and non-democratic countries.
Who should consider the Practitioner Track?
Potential applicants include:
- Democracy activists
- Civil society leaders
- Human rights advocates
- Human rights lawyers
- Journalists
- Members of the media
- Political party figures
- Parliamentarians
- Labour union activists
- Other professionals working to promote democracy
Applicants should have substantial practical experience in democracy or human rights work.
The programme generally targets mid-career professionals.
Is a university degree required?
The official requirements do not specify a particular degree for the Practitioner Track.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate substantial practical experience and a professional record relevant to democracy or human rights.
Candidates should focus on showing how their experience connects to the proposed fellowship project.
2. Scholarly Track
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The Scholarly Track is designed for academics, researchers and other scholars interested in conducting independent research on democratic development.
Applicants should have a strong academic background and a record of relevant publications.
The programme is open to distinguished scholars from the United States and other established democracies as well as scholars from other countries.
Who should consider the Scholarly Track?
Potential applicants include:
- University professors
- Academic researchers
- Political scientists
- Democracy researchers
- Analysts at research centres
- Think tank professionals
- Writers
- Public intellectuals
Academic requirements
Applicants to the Scholarly Track must:
- Possess a doctorate or academic equivalent at the time of application
- Have a proven record of publications in their field
- Prepare a detailed research outline for their fellowship project
Candidates should demonstrate that their research proposal is relevant to democratic development and supported by their academic experience.
Fellowship benefits and financial support
The Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellowship provides financial and professional support to selected fellows during their five-month residence in Washington, D.C.
1. Monthly living stipend
Each fellow receives a monthly stipend intended to support living expenses during the fellowship.
According to NED, the stipend is calculated to cover the cost of a short-term furnished rental apartment, food, local transportation and other necessities.
Important: NED’s official application page does not specify a fixed stipend amount in the published fellowship information. Applicants should not rely on third-party figures unless they are confirmed by the programme.
2. Round-trip travel
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The fellowship provides round-trip travel to and from Washington, D.C.
Travel is provided at the beginning and end of the fellowship period.
Applicants should confirm the travel arrangements and applicable terms with the programme.
3. Basic health insurance
Fellows receive basic health insurance during the programme.
Applicants should review the coverage details and understand what medical expenses may not be included.
4. Furnished accommodation support
The monthly stipend is calculated to help cover a short-term furnished rental apartment.
This is financial support through the stipend rather than a guarantee of a separately provided apartment.
Applicants should carefully budget for accommodation and confirm the actual stipend amount before making arrangements.
5. Fully equipped office
Fellows are provided with a fully equipped office.
This supports their research, writing and professional activities during the programme.
6. Research and editorial support
Programme staff provide assistance with research and writing.
Support may include:
- Advice on project direction
- Research assistance
- Writing support
- Editorial assistance
- Preparation of public presentations
- Outreach and professional engagement
This support helps fellows develop their projects and communicate their findings.
7. Professional travel and communication support
The programme provides a limited budget for long-distance telephone calls and professional travel within the United States.
The exact scope and limits of this support should be confirmed with NED.
8. Seminars and professional exchange
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
Fellows participate in seminars, roundtables, field trips and other activities.
These activities provide opportunities to engage with government, civil society, academic and media communities in Washington, D.C.
Participants can also develop professional relationships with other fellows and democracy-related organisations.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
The fellowship provides substantial financial support, including a monthly living stipend, basic health insurance and round-trip travel.
However, applicants should carefully review the official terms before describing it as covering every possible expense.
The programme’s published benefits do not establish that all visa fees, family travel, dependent expenses or additional personal costs are covered.
Fellows who bring family members are responsible for their dependents’ round-trip travel and stay in the United States.
Fellowship research areas
The fellowship allows participants to investigate different aspects of democratic development.
Projects may focus on political, social, economic, legal or cultural questions.
Potential research themes include:
Democracy and political institutions
Applicants may examine democratic institutions, political participation, governance systems and the challenges facing democratic development.
Projects should identify a meaningful question and explain how the research could contribute to understanding the issue.
Human rights and civil society
Research may focus on civil society organisations, human rights protection, advocacy, civic participation or the challenges facing democratic actors.
Applicants with practical experience in these areas may be able to develop projects grounded in their professional work.
Digital technology and democracy
The fellowship may support research examining the relationship between digital technology and democratic development.
Possible areas include the opportunities and risks associated with technology, digital participation, information environments and the challenges posed by technological change.
Authoritarian influence and democratic resilience
Applicants may investigate challenges related to authoritarian influence, democratic resilience or the protection of democratic institutions.
Projects should demonstrate how the research contributes to understanding democratic development in a particular country, region or field.
International and comparative democracy
The programme encourages fellows to consider their projects in a broader international context.
Applicants may examine how lessons from their country or region relate to democratic developments elsewhere.
Research should remain connected to the applicant’s expertise and the project’s objectives.
Eligibility requirements
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
Applicants must meet the programme’s general requirements and the specific requirements of their selected track.
General eligibility
All applicants should:
- Demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Propose a project related to democratic development.
- Be available to reside and work in Washington, D.C., for the full five-month fellowship.
- Be able to participate in the programme without holding another job or fellowship during the fellowship period.
- Demonstrate a relevant professional or academic background.
The proposed project should focus on political, social, economic, legal or cultural aspects of democratic development.
Practitioner Track requirements
Practitioner applicants should:
- Have substantial practical experience promoting democracy or human rights
- Be mid-career professionals
- Demonstrate a relevant record of work
- Develop a project related to democracy or human rights
There are no specific degree requirements for this track.
Scholarly Track requirements
Scholarly applicants should:
- Possess a doctorate or academic equivalent at the time of application
- Have a proven publication record
- Prepare a detailed research outline
- Demonstrate relevant academic expertise
English language proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
The programme requires application materials to be submitted in English.
Candidates should ensure that their proposals and supporting documents communicate their ideas clearly.
Residence requirement
The fellowship is conducted in residence at the International Forum for Democratic Studies in Washington, D.C.
Applicants must be available for the entire five-month period.
The programme does not permit fellows to hold another job or fellowship during this time.
Previous fellows
Former Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellows are not eligible for repeat fellowships.
Applicants should review the official eligibility requirements carefully before applying.
Can Zimbabwean applicants apply?
Zimbabwean applicants may consider applying if they meet the programme’s eligibility requirements and can demonstrate relevant experience or academic qualifications.
The programme is intended primarily for practitioners from developing and aspiring democracies and non-democratic countries.
Zimbabwean professionals working in democracy, civil society, journalism, human rights or related fields may find the Practitioner Track relevant.
Zimbabwean academics and researchers with a doctorate, publications and a suitable research proposal may consider the Scholarly Track.
Applicants should carefully assess:
- Their professional or academic qualifications
- Their proposed research project
- Their English language proficiency
- Their availability for five months in Washington, D.C.
- Their ability to meet US visa requirements
- Their financial and personal arrangements
The fellowship is competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Required application documents
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The official application process requires applicants to submit several documents through the online application portal.
1. Applicant information
Applicants must complete the required personal and professional information in the online application.
Ensure that all information is accurate and consistent with the supporting documents.
2. Fellowship project proposal
Applicants must submit a project proposal for their selected track.
The proposal should explain:
- The topic
- The research question or project objective
- The country, region or field of focus
- The importance of the project
- The proposed approach
- The expected final product
Practitioner applicants should connect the project to their practical experience.
Scholarly applicants should demonstrate the academic relevance and research value of their proposal.
3. Letters of recommendation
Applicants must submit letters of recommendation.
The recommendation letters are due 12 January 2027, after the main application deadline.
Applicants should identify suitable referees early and provide them with enough time to prepare their letters.
4. CV or résumé
Applicants must submit a CV or résumé outlining their professional or academic background.
Practitioner applicants should highlight relevant experience in democracy, human rights, civil society, journalism or advocacy.
Scholarly applicants should highlight their academic qualifications, publications and research experience.
5. Biography
Applicants must submit a biography.
The biography should provide a concise overview of their background, expertise and relevant achievements.
6. English-language application
All application materials must be submitted in English.
Applicants should carefully review their documents for clarity, accuracy and consistency.
How to apply for the Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellowship 2027–2028
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
Applications must be submitted through the official NED fellowship application process.
Step 1: Visit the official fellowship website
Go to the National Endowment for Democracy’s official fellowship page.
Review the programme information and application instructions.
Step 2: Choose your fellowship track
Select either the Practitioner Track or the Scholarly Track.
Choose the track that best matches your professional experience and qualifications.
Step 3: Develop your project proposal
Prepare a project related to democratic development.
Your proposal should demonstrate the relevance of the project and explain how it connects to your experience or expertise.
Step 4: Create an online application account
The official application process requires applicants to create an account through the online portal.
Complete the required applicant information.
Step 5: Prepare your supporting documents
Prepare your:
- Project proposal
- CV or résumé
- Biography
- Recommendation letters
Ensure that all materials are in English.
Step 6: Submit your application
Submit the completed application through the official online portal before the deadline.
The main application deadline is 5 January 2027.
Step 7: Ensure recommendation letters are submitted
Recommendation letters must be submitted by 12 January 2027.
Applicants should coordinate with their referees to ensure the letters are submitted correctly and on time.
Step 8: Monitor your application
Check your email and application account for communications from NED.
Follow any additional instructions provided by the programme.
Application deadlines
| Application stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Main fellowship application | 5 January 2027 |
| Recommendation letters | 12 January 2027 |
| Fellowship duration | Five months |
| Fellowship location | Washington, D.C. |
Applicants should submit their application before the deadline and ensure that their recommendation letters are received by the separate deadline.
The official application page should be checked for any updates.
Selection process
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellows Program uses a competitive selection process.
Applications are evaluated based on the applicant’s experience, project proposal and potential contribution to democratic development.
The selection process culminates in the selection of finalists by NED’s Board of Directors.
What applicants should demonstrate
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong record of relevant work or academic achievement
- A clear and meaningful project
- Relevant professional or scholarly expertise
- The ability to complete the fellowship project
- Potential to contribute to democratic learning
- The ability to engage with an international professional community
The programme seeks fellows whose experience and projects can contribute to practical and strategic understanding of democracy.
Visa requirements for international applicants
International applicants who are not US citizens or permanent residents must obtain the appropriate visa before travelling to the United States.
NED states that prospective fellows sponsored by the programme generally need a J-1 exchange visitor visa.
Accompanying family members must obtain the appropriate J-2 visas.
Applicants should begin reviewing visa requirements well in advance of the fellowship.
Important J-1 restriction
The programme states that applicants cannot have participated in a J-1 Research Scholar programme during the 24 months immediately preceding their Reagan-Fascinell fellowship.
Applicants should carefully review this requirement if they have previously participated in a US exchange programme.
Two-year home-country requirement
Fellows sponsored under the J-1 visa are typically subject to a US legal requirement to return to their home country for two years after completing the fellowship before they may apply for certain other immigration categories or permanent residence.
The applicability of this requirement depends on the individual’s circumstances and immigration rules.
Applicants should consult the official programme information and appropriate immigration authorities.
How to prepare a competitive application
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
1. Develop a clear research or project idea
Your proposal should focus on a specific democratic development issue.
Avoid selecting a topic that is too broad.
Explain what you want to investigate, why it matters and how the fellowship will help you develop the project.
2. Demonstrate your relevant experience
Practitioner applicants should show how their professional work relates to democracy or human rights.
Scholarly applicants should demonstrate their research expertise and publication record.
Use concrete examples rather than general statements.
3. Explain the project’s practical importance
Describe how the project could contribute to understanding democratic development.
The programme encourages fellows to consider the broader implications of their work and how lessons may be relevant beyond their immediate country or region.
4. Prepare a realistic project plan
Consider how the project can be completed within five months.
Identify the research activities, expected output and possible challenges.
5. Select appropriate referees
Choose referees who can provide meaningful information about your professional or academic experience.
Give them the application requirements and deadline well in advance.
6. Write in your own voice
The application should reflect your own ideas, experience and motivation.
NED’s official guidance warns against wholesale copying of AI-generated application answers.
Limited AI use for brainstorming, editing or translation may be acceptable, but applicants should ensure that their application remains authentic and accurate.
7. Review the official instructions
Before submitting, check that your application includes all required documents and that recommendation letters are arranged separately.
Frequently asked questions
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
Is the Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellowship 2027–2028 open?
Yes. NED’s official application page states that applications for the 2027–2028 fellowship year are open.
What is the application deadline?
The main application deadline is 5 January 2027.
When are recommendation letters due?
Recommendation letters must be submitted by 12 January 2027.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts five months.
Where is the fellowship held?
The fellowship takes place at the International Forum for Democratic Studies in Washington, D.C., United States.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
The programme provides a monthly living stipend, basic health insurance, round-trip travel and a fully equipped office.
The stipend is intended to cover a short-term furnished rental apartment and living expenses.
Applicants should confirm the exact stipend and coverage details with NED.
Is there an age limit?
The official application requirements do not specify a general age limit.
The Practitioner Track is typically intended for mid-career professionals with substantial relevant experience.
Can applicants without a PhD apply?
Yes, applicants may apply through the Practitioner Track, which does not have a specific degree requirement.
The Scholarly Track requires a doctorate or academic equivalent.
Can Zimbabweans apply?
Zimbabwean applicants may apply if they meet the programme’s requirements and can participate in the five-month fellowship in Washington, D.C.
Can journalists apply?
Yes. Journalists and other members of the media are among the examples of eligible practitioner candidates.
Can civil society leaders apply?
Yes. Civil society leaders and democracy activists are among the intended applicants for the Practitioner Track.
Can I apply if I have already been a Reagan-Fascinell fellow?
No. Former Reagan-Fascinell fellows are not eligible for repeat fellowships.
Do I need to submit my application in English?
Yes. All application materials must be submitted in English.
Does the fellowship cover family expenses?
No. Fellows who bring family members are expected to cover their dependents’ round-trip travel and stay in the United States.
Where can I ask questions?
Applicants can contact the fellowship programme.
Final thoughts
Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowships 2027–2028
The Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellows Program 2027–2028 offers a valuable opportunity for experienced democracy practitioners and scholars to conduct independent research and engage with an international professional community in Washington, D.C.
The five-month fellowship combines financial support, research assistance, professional exchange and opportunities to develop practical ideas related to democratic development.
The Practitioner Track is particularly relevant to democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders and human rights professionals.
The Scholarly Track is intended for academics and researchers with a doctorate, publications and a detailed research proposal.
Interested applicants should begin preparing their project proposals, CVs, biographies and recommendation letters as soon as possible.
Main application deadline: 5 January 2027.
Recommendation letters deadline: 12 January 2027.
Applicants should review the official programme requirements carefully and submit their applications through the National Endowment for Democracy’s official fellowship portal.
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Vacancy Bridge disclaimer
Vacancy Bridge shares opportunity information for educational and informational purposes.
The Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellows Program details in this article are based on the official National Endowment for Democracy application information.
Applicants should verify the latest eligibility requirements, application deadlines, financial support, visa arrangements and programme details through NED’s official website.
Vacancy Bridge is not the recruiting organisation and does not guarantee selection, funding, employment or visa approval.
Key details
- Programme: Reagan-Fascinell Democracy Fellows Program 2027–2028
- Host: National Endowment for Democracy
- Location: Washington, D.C., United States
- Duration: Five months
- Tracks: Practitioner Track and Scholarly Track
- Funding: Monthly living stipend
- Additional benefits: Basic health insurance, round-trip travel, equipped office and research support
- Main deadline: 5 January 2027
- Recommendation letters: 12 January 2027
- Application language: English
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