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Open Call for Applications: 12th MENA Fellowship Program

Are you looking for an opportunity to deepen your skills, expand your network and connect with like-minded individuals and organizations? We are pleased to announce the open call for applications for the 12th MENA Fellowship Program, designed for participants from the Middle East and North Africa region.

The MENA Fellowship is a fully funded, four-week program that will take place in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, from 13 May to 13 June, 2026.

What is the MENA Fellowship Program?

The MENA Fellowship Program is designed for civil society leaders, activists and professionals from the MENA region who are interested in strengthening democratic processes through the use of technology.

During the program, fellows will engage in learning, peer exchange and practical work focused on key areas such as: fact-checking and accountability, civic participation and education, government and election monitoring, research and advocacy and the application of digital tools in democracy-building efforts.

Why apply? What makes this edition special?

  • Refined and practice-oriented curriculum focused on real-world challenges faced by civil society actors
  • Strong regional and international network, connecting you with experts, mentors, journalists and researchers
  • One-month residency in Sarajevo, a vibrant city at the crossroads of cultures in the Western Balkans
  • Study visits and meetings with civil society organizations and initiatives
  • Hands-on project work, allowing you to further develop an idea relevant to your organization or community
  • Cultural exchange, shared learning and meaningful collaboration with fellows from across the MENA region

Additional opportunities

Selected fellows will also have the opportunity to participate in POINT Conference, as well as receive seed funding and tailored mentoring to support the development of their fellowship project. Learn more about the POINT conference.

Who Can Apply?

We are looking for civil society activists who:

  • Are committed to promoting transparency, accountability and citizen engagement in their communities.
  • Have a proven track record of activism or civic engagement.
  • Are based in the MENA region or Afghanistan.
  • Are available to fully participate in the program from 24 May to 24 June, 2025.

Key information & How to apply

Submit your application via the following link by 15 February, 2026.

  • Application deadline: 15 February, 2026 
  • Program duration: 13 May – 13 June, 2026

Selected participants will be provided with a residential fellowship at the offices of UG Zašto ne (CA Why not) in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina for one month. All core expenses, including travel, visa support, accommodation, and program-related costs, are covered.

The working language of the program is English.

For additional information, please contact us at [email protected] with the subject line: MENA Fellowship 2026.

Become part of the 12th MENA Fellowship Program – where ideas grow, collaborations begin and networks last.

We look forward to receiving your application!