Kazakhstan Workshop in Global Governance Program 2026 for Researchers
Applications are now open for the ACUNS Annual Workshop on International Organisation Studies 2026, an internationally recognized programme designed for early-career researchers, postdoctoral scholars, and professionals working in the field of global governance and United Nations studies. The workshop will be held from 21 June to 28 June 2026 in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and is jointly organized by the Academic Council on the United Nations System (ACUNS), the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research, and Narxoz University.
This week-long academic workshop offers selected participants a chance to engage with leading scholars and policy experts, receive research mentoring, and strengthen their academic and professional profiles in the field of international governance. With only 20 participants selected worldwide, the workshop is considered highly competitive and prestigious.
Degree Level
The ACUNS Annual Workshop 2026 is open to:
- PhD candidates
- Postdoctoral researchers
- Faculty members
- Mid-career professionals
This is not a degree programme, but an advanced academic workshop aimed at individuals already involved in research or professional work related to international organisations and global governance.
Available Subjects
The programme is open to applicants working in areas related to:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Global Governance
- United Nations Studies
- International Development
- Public Policy
- Regional Cooperation
- International Law
The 2026 workshop theme is “The Regional Turn in Global Governance?”, focusing on the growing role of regional organizations in shaping global policy.
Benefits
Although the ACUNS Workshop is not a traditional scholarship, selected participants gain valuable academic and professional benefits, including:
- Direct mentorship from leading scholars and experts in international governance
- Research feedback on proposals and draft papers
- Opportunities to contribute to policy briefs, journal articles, and edited publications
- Access to an international network of academics and practitioners
- Participation in high-level discussions on UN systems and regional governance
- Enhanced academic visibility for future career opportunities in global policy institutions
This workshop is designed to help participants strengthen their research output and build professional connections in the field of global governance.
Eligible Nationalities
The workshop is open to applicants from all nationalities. Researchers and professionals from around the world are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be an advanced PhD candidate, postdoctoral researcher, faculty member, or mid-career professional
- Have academic or professional experience related to international organizations or global governance
- Submit a research proposal relevant to the workshop theme
- Provide a career statement
- Submit a professional or academic reference
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to research and policy engagement in global governance
The workshop is intended for applicants with a clear research agenda and strong academic potential.
Application Procedure
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
- Prepare a Research Proposal
Develop a research proposal related to the 2026 workshop theme, The Regional Turn in Global Governance? - Write a Career Statement
Prepare a statement outlining your academic background, career goals, and reasons for applying. - Obtain a Reference Letter
Request a recommendation from an academic supervisor or professional mentor. - Submit the Online Application
Complete the official application form and upload all required documents before the deadline. - Wait for Selection Results
Successful applicants will be notified after the review process.
Because the workshop accepts only 20 participants globally, applicants are encouraged to submit strong and well-prepared applications.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the ACUNS Annual Workshop on International Organisation Studies 2026 is 26 April 2026.
Why You Should Apply
The ACUNS Annual Workshop 2026 is an excellent opportunity for researchers seeking to advance their careers in international relations, United Nations systems, and global governance. While it does not provide direct scholarship funding, it offers high-level academic mentorship, global exposure, and professional networking opportunities that can significantly strengthen a participant’s academic and policy career.
For aspiring scholars and professionals working on international governance issues, this workshop can be a valuable stepping stone toward future research collaborations and policy roles in global institutions.
