Bucharest Forum Fellowship Program 2026: Submit Your Policy Paper, Get Published, and Engage with Regional Leaders in Romania

Overview

The Bucharest Forum Fellowship Program 2026 offers researchers, policy professionals, academics, and emerging leaders an opportunity to contribute original research to strategic policy discussions. Organised by Aspen Institute Romania as part of the Bucharest Forum, the programme connects research and policy analysis with practical strategic dialogue. Selected participants can present their ideas, engage with regional leaders, and participate in networking activities during the annual event.

Who can apply

The programme targets emerging and established voices, professionals, and researchers with relevant academic or professional backgrounds who are interested in security, defence, foreign policy, energy, critical materials, technology, or public policy. Applicants must be able to develop and communicate distinctive ideas and contribute meaningfully to strategic discussions.

What you get

Selected fellows have their original policy papers edited and published through the Bucharest Forum paper series. Participants gain access to all plenary sessions of the Bucharest Forum and receive opportunities to engage and network with policymakers, experts, industry leaders, peers, and senior Forum participants.

Requirements

Applicants must submit an original policy paper of 1,500 to 2,000 words written in English. The policy paper must address one of five specified research themes, which include Eastern Flank relations, critical materials, Moldova's security and stability, South Caucasus geopolitics, and maritime security.

Key dates

The application deadline is 31 October 2026. The Bucharest Forum takes place on 19 to 20 November 2026 in Bucharest, Romania.