Applications are now open for the HIIA Future Leaders Program 2026. This international leadership program will be held at the HIIA Headquarters in Budapest, Hungary, for three months, from 1st April to 30th June 2026. Candidates from all around the world are eligible to apply. This program is organized by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA). The objective is to provide an opportunity for participants to deepen their knowledge of foreign policy, learn more about HIIA’s work, and gain insights into Hungarian foreign policy. A perfect opportunity for candidates with an interest in international relations. There is no application fee, and IELTS/TOEFL is not required. Below are more details about the program requirements, financial benefits, and the application process.
Details About HIIA Future Leaders Program 2026
- Host Country: Hungary
- Location: Budapest
- Duration: 3 Months
- Dates: 1st April to 30th June 2026
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 30 January 2026
Also Check: Global Young Leaders Program 2026, South Korea (Fully Funded)
Financial Benefits
The Program Covers:
- Round Airfare Tickets.
- Accommodation Expense.
- Visa support provided.
- No application fee.
Also Check: European Youth Summit 2026 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)
Objectives of the HIIA Fellowship
- Dive Deep into Diplomacy: Immerse yourself in Hungarian foreign policy and HIIA’s core work.
- Expert-Guided Research: Conduct impactful research with professional mentorship.
- Shape the Dialogue: Contribute to HIIA’s strategic priorities through your own regional or thematic research.
- Skill Up for Success: Benefit from extensive training in foreign policy, leadership, public speaking, and media.
- Network & Grow: Engage in public discussions and connect with Hungary’s foreign policy elite.
Research Topics
- Regional studies: Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Visegrád cooperation, Transatlantic relations, Middle East, Turkic States, Asia-Pacific.
- Thematic studies: Security policy, Energy policy, Multipolarity, Global geopolitical issues, Connectivity, Family policy in the international context, Cultural diplomacy.
Also Check: Global Essay Competition 2026 (Fully Funded to Switzerland)
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to all.
- Fresh Minds, Global Focus: Recent graduates (Bachelor’s minimum) passionate about foreign policy.
- Academic Roots: Ideal candidates typically hold degrees in:
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- History
- International Economics
- Related fields are considered individually.
- Age Limit: Must be under 30 years old.
Required Documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
- Writing Sample of 3000-5000 characters.
Also Check: BDSY Summer Program 2026 at Yale, USA (Fully Funded)
Timeline
- Interviews: 16 February – 20 February 2026
- Announcement of the results: 27 February 2026
- Fellowship start date: 1 April 2026
- Fellowship end date: 30 June 2026
Also Check: NUS Young Professionals Program 2026, Singapore (Fully Funded)
How to Apply for the HIIA Future Leaders Program 2026?
Candidates must apply online using the provided application link. The Link to the official website is below.
APPLY FOR THE HIIA FUTURE LEADERS PROGRAM
