McCain Global Leaders Program 2026: Fully Funded Global Leadership Program Advancing Democracy & Human Rights
The McCain Global Leaders Program (MGL) 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious, fully funded global leadership program is designed for mid- to senior-career professionals committed to advancing democracy, defending human rights, and creating opportunity in their countries and regions.
Delivered by the McCain Institute, the program brings together a diverse global cohort of leaders working across civil society, government, media, policy, business, and social impact sectors. Over 12 months, participants engage in intensive leadership development, global peer learning, and in-person international experiences inspired by the legacy and values of Senator John McCain.
Application deadline: 15 March 2026 (11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time)
Overview of the McCain Global Leaders Program
The McCain Global Leaders Program is a non-residential, 12-month leadership fellowship that combines global and regional learning to help leaders respond to today’s most pressing challenges, including democratic backsliding, authoritarianism, disinformation, shrinking civic space, and human rights violations.
Participants take part in a carefully designed curriculum that integrates:
- Global and regional peer networks
- Leadership development grounded in democratic values
- Practical skills training and policy engagement
- Peer mentorship and collaborative problem-solving
The program connects leaders to both regional cohorts and a global community of peers, strengthening cross-border collaboration and long-term impact.
2026 Global Theme: Advancing Freedom, Defending Rights, Creating Opportunity
Across the world, democratic norms and fundamental freedoms are under increasing threat. Authoritarian actors are exploiting technology, polarization, and global instability to weaken democratic institutions and restrict civic participation. At the same time, younger generations face declining opportunities to shape their futures.
The 2026 McCain Global Leaders cohort will focus on identifying and advancing solutions that:
- Strengthen democratic governance and institutions
- Defend human rights and the rule of law
- Counter authoritarian and malign influence
- Expand civic, political, and economic opportunity
The program is built on the belief that while global challenges are growing more complex, a new generation of principled leaders can expand freedom and democracy in every region of the world.
2026 Regional Themes
Applicants apply under one regional focus area while participating in global-level programming and collaboration.
Western Hemisphere: Building Partnerships, Advancing Migration Solutions
This regional cohort brings together leaders addressing the root causes of migration as well as those working on migration policy and frontline responses. The focus is on regional cooperation, humane migration systems, and solutions that uphold dignity while respecting national sovereignty and public safety.
Europe and Eurasia: Countering Authoritarians through Freedom, Democracy, and Human Rights
The Europe and Eurasia cohort addresses democratic backsliding, disinformation, foreign interference, rising nationalism, and extremism. Participants examine both internal and external threats to democracy and develop strategies to strengthen democratic resilience across the region.
Africa and the Middle East: From Protest to Policy – Growing Democracy for All
This cohort explores political transitions, inclusive governance, and citizen engagement in contexts marked by political and security instability. Leaders focus on translating civic activism and protest movements into sustainable policy reform, democratic institutions, and accountable governance.
Asia and Oceania: Creating Stability by Advancing Democracy and Freedom
Participants examine youth-led democratic transitions, authoritarian pressures, and great-power competition shaping the region. The cohort focuses on how advancing democracy and human rights can foster long-term political and economic stability.
Program Structure and Timeline (June 2026 – May 2027)
The McCain Global Leaders Program runs for 12 months and includes approximately 25 days of in-person programming, complemented by regular virtual engagement.
Leadership Curriculum (Throughout the Program)
Participants complete a leadership curriculum delivered online and in person. The curriculum draws on lessons from Senator John McCain’s life and leadership, emphasizing integrity, service, courage, and collaboration. A central component is a peer-mentorship model that supports leadership growth and collective problem-solving.
Fall 2026: Leadership Experience – Athens, Greece
The first in-person convening brings the full cohort together for a seven-day leadership experience in Athens, the birthplace of democracy. Participants engage with global experts and decision-makers, develop leadership philosophies, set career goals, and design impact projects to implement during the program year.
Winter 2026/2027: Changemaker Tours – Regional Host Countries
Each regional cohort participates in a five-day study tour focused on defending democracy in practice. These tours build regional networks, expose participants to policy environments, and encourage professional collaboration. Previous host countries have included Colombia, Guatemala, Estonia, Finland, Kenya, Poland, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Africa.
Spring 2027: Legacy Experience – Vietnam
The program concludes with a global capstone experience in Vietnam, a country central to Senator McCain’s personal leadership journey. Leaders reflect on their growth, share lessons learned, explore future collaborations, and transition into the McCain Global Leaders Alumni Network.
Funding, Stipend, and Cost Coverage
The McCain Global Leaders Program is fully funded. There is no participation fee.
The McCain Institute covers:
- Economy-class international travel
- Accommodation during program convenings
- Program-related visas and logistics
Participants also receive a stipend to offset incidental expenses incurred during the program. The primary cost to participants is the time and commitment required to fully engage.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Mid- to senior-career professionals
- Minimum of five years of professional experience
- Strong working proficiency in English
- Demonstrated leadership roles or leadership potential
- Active engagement in issues aligned with the program’s global and regional themes
There is no age limit and no minimum educational requirement. Applicants from all countries and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Selection is based on leadership capacity, vision, service orientation, and alignment with program themes.
Time Commitment and Expectations
Participants are expected to:
- Take part in all required in-person and virtual program activities
- Commit approximately 6–8 hours per month to virtual engagement
- Adhere to a professional code of conduct
- Secure required travel documents and visas
Completion of the program grants lifelong membership in the McCain Global Leaders Alumni Network, offering continued access to mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and global leadership support
Application Process and Deadline
- Application window: 26 January – 15 March 2026
- Deadline: 15 March 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time
- Applications must be submitted through the official online portal
- The review process may take up to three months
Applicants who are not selected are encouraged to apply again in future cycles.
Click HERE to apply
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about the McCain Global Leaders program? Please take a look at these commonly asked questions and our responses. If you can’t find your answer here, please email leadershipinitiatives@mccaininstitute.org and we will get you a response as soon as possible.
Applicants should be mid- to senior-career professionals with strong working proficiency in English who are actively engaged in issue areas related to the program’s global and regional themes. Candidates should hold leadership roles, be actively working to create positive change in their communities, and demonstrate a commitment to serving a cause greater than themselves.
Applicants should have at least five years of professional experience. There is no age requirement and no minimum educational requirement. Individuals from all countries and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Selection is based on leadership capacity, vision, service orientation, and fulfillment of eligibility requirements.
Yes. Each cohort is organized around a global theme, and each region is organized around a regional specific theme. Applicants should demonstrate experience or interest in both the global and regional themes, as study tours and impact projects are designed with these themes in mind. The 2026 global and regional themes are available on the McCain Global Leaders program page.
The application period runs from January 26, 2026, through March 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Eastern Standard Time. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed materials will not be considered.
MGLs are required to participate in all in-person and virtual program components. The program includes approximately 25 days of in-person programming across three travel experiences and an estimated 6–8 hours per month of virtual engagement. Some additional work and reflection are expected outside of scheduled sessions, with consideration given to participants’ professional and personal responsibilities.
All participants must sign and adhere to a code of conduct emphasizing respect, professionalism, and integrity. MGLs are responsible for understanding entry requirements for host countries and securing any required visas. Failure to meet program expectations or uphold the code of conduct may result in removal from the program.
Participation in individual or collaborative projects inspired by the program is encouraged but not required. Graduates join an active alumni community upon completion of the program.
The program runs for 12 months and runs from June 2026 through May 2027. Participants are expected to fully engage throughout the program year. A detailed calendar will be shared with applicants who advance to the second round of interviews. Travel locations and dates are not shared publicly before then. Virtual sessions are held on Zoom during Eastern Standard Time and most often take place at 9:00 AM Eastern Standard Time.
Yes, participants will receive a stipend meant to cover incidental expenses incurred throughout the program. However, the direct costs of participation in the program (economy class travel, hotels, visas) will be fully covered by the McCain Institute. There will be no cost of participation other than the time commitment that MGLs make to participate in programming.
The review process may take up to 3 months from the close of the application window.
Yes. Many selected leaders are repeat applicants. You are encouraged to reapply if your leadership experience, impact, or project vision has grown since your last application.
Graduates join the McCain Global Leaders Alumni Network, gaining ongoing access to global peers, collaboration opportunities, alumni events, mentorship, and continued leadership support.
Contact Information
For additional questions about the McCain Global Leaders Program, contact:
leadershipinitiatives@mccaininstitute.org
“Civic participation over a lifetime, working in neighborhoods and communities and service of all kinds—military and civilian, full-time and part-time, national and international—will strengthen America’s civic purpose.”
— Senator John McCain
The 2026 application window is open until March 15, 2026
Click HERE to apply
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