Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy (TIMEP) 2026-2027 Nonresident Fellow Applications – Paid Fellowship for Advocates, Researchers, Journalists, and Lawyers
The Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy (TIMEP) is now accepting applications for its 2026-2027 Nonresident Fellowship Program, a unique and prestigious opportunity for advocates, researchers, journalists, and lawyers to engage in solutions-oriented work that advances transparent, accountable, and just societies across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This nonresident fellowship is designed to provide emerging and mid-career professionals with the resources, mentorship, and network needed to generate real-world impact through policy analysis, advocacy, and public engagement.
TIMEP’s Nonresident Fellowship Program is highly regarded for fostering transformative change by equipping fellows with tools and knowledge to address some of the most pressing governance, civil society, and policy challenges in the MENA region. The fellowship is non-academic and focuses on practical policy work and engagement rather than scholarly research, making it an ideal platform for professionals seeking to shape policy, influence discourse, and contribute meaningfully to regional development.
Background: TIMEP and the Nonresident Fellowship Program
Founded with the mission of promoting transparency, accountability, and justice in Middle Eastern governance, TIMEP has consistently engaged with policymakers, civil society actors, and regional experts to produce actionable insights and solutions. The Nonresident Fellowship Program is central to this mission, providing a platform for individuals deeply embedded in the region or with significant regional experience to contribute to TIMEP’s research, advocacy, and policy priorities.
The fellowship cohort is designed to be diverse, multidisciplinary, and deeply connected to on-the-ground realities. Fellows are selected for their expertise, innovative thinking, and ability to deliver practical insights that inform policy discussions and advance TIMEP’s mission of strengthening accountable governance and civil society across the MENA region.
Fellowship Details: Structure, Duration, and Stipend
The 2026-2027 Nonresident Fellowship is a 12-month program beginning in mid-May 2026. Fellows are considered essential members of the TIMEP network but work in a nonresident capacity, which allows for flexibility in managing their professional and personal commitments.
Key details include:
- Duration: 12 months, starting mid-May 2026
- Workload: Approximately 15–20 hours per month
- Location: Nonresident; fellows work remotely while engaging with TIMEP’s global and regional network
- Stipend: Fellows receive a stipend commensurate with experience
- Integration: Fellows gain access to TIMEP’s skills-building programs, mentorship, and policy engagement opportunities
The fellowship is structured to support innovative, policy-relevant projects, allowing fellows to propose original mandates that reflect their expertise, research interests, and the needs of the region. Fellows produce solutions-oriented programming, policy analysis, and other outputs that address regional challenges and contribute to broader discussions on governance, civil society, and regional development.
Fellowship Mandate: Proposal Requirements
Applicants must propose an original mandate as part of their fellowship application. This mandate should include:
- Proposed Topic: A specific area of focus that aligns with the applicant’s expertise and interests
- Geographic Focus: Preferably targeting one of TIMEP’s priority countries (Egypt, Tunisia, Sudan, Syria, or Lebanon)
- Alignment with Priority Themes: Fellows are encouraged to select topics that intersect with TIMEP’s priority themes:
- Governance and politics
- Security
- Economy and reconstruction
- Law and accountability
- Social movements and civil society
- Migration and displacement
- Misinformation and disinformation
Mandates are expected to produce actionable insights, influence policy or practice, and contribute to public discourse through media, events, and other engagements. Priority is given to proposals that are locally grounded and solutions-oriented, demonstrating both innovation and feasibility.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply
The 2026-2027 Nonresident Fellowship is open to individuals who meet the following requirements:
- Experience: At least five years of relevant work or academic experience in a field related to the proposed mandate
- Education: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Language Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English and Arabic
- Commitment: Demonstrated alignment with TIMEP’s mission and principles
- Regional Connectivity: Strong ties to civil society, grassroots organizations, or experts and advocates in the MENA region
Preference is given to candidates who live or work in the region, reflecting TIMEP’s emphasis on bringing localized perspectives to policy and advocacy work. Applicants should demonstrate a deep understanding of regional dynamics and possess the skills to translate insights into practical, actionable outputs.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit the following application materials:
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) – outlining professional experience and qualifications
- Cover Letter – including the proposed fellowship mandate and a brief explanation of the topic’s importance
Applications are submitted online in English via this Google Form by February 27, 2026.
The application process is conducted in multiple stages:
- Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed for eligibility and completeness
- Second Round Review: Selected candidates are invited to submit a detailed statement of interest outlining their mandate, methodology, and expected impact
Named Fellowships: Sarah Hegazi and Mohamed Aboelgheit
TIMEP designates two named nonresident fellowships as part of the cohort:
- Sarah Hegazi Nonresident Fellowship
- Mohamed Aboelgheit Nonresident Fellowship
Candidates may express interest in these fellowships while following the same application process outlined above. Named fellows are selected based on the alignment of their mandates with the values, mission, and strategic priorities associated with these fellowships.
Key Benefits of the Fellowship
The TIMEP Nonresident Fellowship provides participants with numerous opportunities to grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to regional policy discussions:
- Produce policy-relevant programming and analysis tailored to regional needs
- Access personalized skills-building opportunities for professional growth
- Collaborate with a cohort of like-minded advocates, researchers, journalists, and lawyers from across the MENA region
- Engage with TIMEP’s global network of organizations, advocates, and policymakers
- Gain media, policy, and event exposure to amplify the impact of their work
Fellows are expected to develop outputs such as policy briefs, research reports, and other tools that can inform stakeholders and decision-makers while contributing to public debate.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: February 2, 2026
- Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
- Cohort Start: Mid-May 2026
- Notification of Selection: After the review and screening process; exact dates will be communicated to successful candidates
For questions regarding the application or fellowship, applicants can contact TIMEP at fellowships@timep.org.
The 2026-2027 TIMEP Nonresident Fellowship is a unique and transformative opportunity for advocates, researchers, journalists, and lawyers committed to advancing transparent, accountable, and just societies across the MENA region. By joining this fellowship, participants gain access to an expansive network, personalized mentorship, and opportunities to shape public discourse and policy. This fellowship is ideal for professionals seeking a high-impact, flexible, and nonresident program that combines regional expertise with global exposure.
Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early and prepare thoughtful, solutions-oriented mandates aligned with TIMEP’s priority countries and themes.
Apply for the 2026-2027 TIMEP Nonresident Fellowship
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