France Fully Funded Marianne Initiative 18-Week Fellowships 2026
Degree Level
This is a non-degree fellowship programme focused on professional training, leadership development, and capacity building for human rights defenders.
Programme Duration
- 18 weeks (approximately 4–6 months)
- Conducted in Paris, France
Available Subjects
The fellowship covers a wide range of practical and academic areas, including:
- Human Rights and International Law
- Advocacy and Public Policy
- Leadership and Negotiation
- Project Management
- Defender Safety and Protection Mechanisms
- Civil Liberties and Social Justice
- Environmental and Minority Rights
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package, including:
- Fully funded stay in France
- Monthly living stipend
- Free accommodation
- Tailored training programme
- One-on-one mentorship
- Access to French and international institutions
- Networking with NGOs, legal experts, and policymakers
- Participation in conferences, workshops, and cultural activities
- Membership in the Marianne Alumni global network
Beyond material benefits, the programme provides a safe and supportive environment for defenders working under pressure to rest and refocus.
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to international applicants worldwide
- Candidates must be applying from their home country or a third country
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be human rights defenders actively working on issues such as:
- Civil and political rights
- Women’s rights
- Minority protections
- Children’s rights
- Environmental justice
- Demonstrate a strong track record of activism
- Provide supporting documents and proof of work
- Apply through the official French government platform
- Be committed to using the experience to create impact in their communities
Application Procedure
- Online Application
Submit your application through the official French government portal. - Document Submission
Provide identity documents and evidence of your human rights work. - Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by an independent expert committee. - Final Selection
Around 15 fellows are selected annually from a global pool of applicants.
Important Deadline
- Application Deadline: 4 May 2026
Programme Impact
The Marianne Initiative was created in response to the global decline in fundamental freedoms. Since its launch, it has supported multiple cohorts of defenders, building a strong international network known as the Marianne Alumni.
The initiative also extends globally through partnerships with organizations such as the Agence Française de Développement and Agir Ensemble pour les droits humains, ensuring long-term impact in participants’ home countries.
