The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) has officially opened applications for its prestigious Future Leaders Program 2026 Fall Edition, offering an exceptional opportunity for young talents and recent graduates from Hungary and around the world to gain hands-on experience in foreign policy research, international affairs, and policy development.
The three-month fellowship program is designed to nurture the next generation of foreign policy experts, researchers, analysts, and decision-makers by providing intensive professional training, mentorship, and direct involvement in the work of one of Hungary’s leading foreign policy think tanks.
The program will run from 1 September 2026 to 30 November 2026 and will be conducted entirely in English at the headquarters of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs in Budapest, Hungary.
About the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs
The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) is Hungary’s leading foreign policy research institute and think tank. The institute plays a significant role in shaping both domestic and international foreign policy discussions through research, analysis, policy recommendations, and professional engagement with policymakers and stakeholders.
Through the Future Leaders Program, HIIA seeks to identify and support promising young individuals who demonstrate strong academic backgrounds, analytical capabilities, and a passion for international affairs.
Purpose of the Future Leaders Program
The HIIA Future Leaders Program was created to provide young professionals and recent graduates with a unique opportunity to:
- Gain practical experience in foreign policy research.
- Deepen their understanding of Hungarian foreign policy.
- Work alongside experienced researchers and policy experts.
- Participate in strategic research projects.
- Develop professional and leadership skills.
- Build valuable networks within foreign policy and diplomatic circles.
Participants will conduct research under the guidance of professional mentors while contributing to the work of HIIA’s research groups and project management teams.
The program also enables fellows to explore their own regional or thematic research interests while supporting HIIA’s strategic research priorities.
What Fellows Will Do
Throughout the fellowship, participants will engage in a wide range of professional activities, including:
Research and Policy Analysis
Fellows will:
- Conduct independent and collaborative research.
- Prepare research reports.
- Analyze current international affairs and geopolitical developments.
- Contribute to policy discussions and publications.
Professional Development
Participants will receive extensive training in:
- Foreign policy analysis
- International relations
- Leadership development
- Public speaking
- Strategic communication
- Media engagement
- Policy writing
Networking Opportunities
The fellowship offers opportunities to:
- Interact with foreign policy experts.
- Participate in public professional discussions.
- Engage with diplomatic and policy communities.
- Build professional relationships within Hungary’s foreign policy ecosystem.
Key Research Areas
Applicants may pursue research within various regional and thematic fields.
Regional Studies
Research opportunities include:
- Western Balkans
- Eastern Europe
- Visegrád Cooperation
- Transatlantic Relations
- Middle East
- Turkic States
- Asia-Pacific Region
Thematic Studies
Participants may also focus on:
- Security Policy
- European Union Affairs
- Energy Policy
- Multipolarity
- Global Geopolitical Issues
- Connectivity
- Cultural Diplomacy
These research areas align closely with HIIA’s strategic priorities and provide fellows with exposure to some of the most pressing issues in global affairs.
Benefits of the HIIA Future Leaders Program
Selected fellows will receive numerous professional and financial benefits.
Professional Benefits
- Direct mentorship from experienced policy professionals.
- Participation in specialized seminars and workshops.
- Leadership and communication training.
- Practical foreign policy research experience.
- Access to policy discussions and expert networks.
- Opportunity to contribute to strategic policy projects.
- Enhanced career prospects in diplomacy, government, academia, international organizations, and think tanks.
Financial Benefits
Participants will be engaged under a:
- Three-month fixed-term fellowship contract.
- Gross financial compensation linked to the successful completion of program milestones.
Milestones include:
- Participation in educational seminars.
- Completion of professional development activities.
- Submission of research reports.
- Delivery of a personal research project.
Additional Benefits for International Fellows
Applicants from outside Hungary may receive additional support from HIIA.
International fellows who do not possess a Hungarian residence permit may receive:
- Round-trip travel support provided by HIIA.
- Monthly accommodation support through a fixed financial contribution.
This additional assistance helps reduce the financial burden of participating in the program from abroad.
Important Information for International Applicants
International fellows are responsible for:
- Obtaining the necessary visa for Hungary.
- Arranging their own accommodation.
However, HIIA is prepared to provide assistance during the visa application process to support successful candidates.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review Hungary’s visa requirements before submitting their applications.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Future Leaders Program 2026, applicants must:
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
- Be under 30 years of age.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in foreign policy and international affairs.
- Possess strong English language skills.
- Be available to participate in the program in person in Budapest.
Preferred academic backgrounds include:
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- History
- Diplomacy
Applicants from closely related disciplines may also be considered.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit all documents in English.
Required documents include:
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Maximum length: Two pages
2. Cover Letter
- Maximum length: One page
3. Writing Sample
- Between 3,000 and 5,000 characters, including spaces
4. English Language Certificate
- Minimum proficiency level: C1
Only complete applications containing all required documents will be considered.
Selection Process
The selection process consists of:
Application Review
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Academic qualifications
- Research potential
- Writing ability
- Motivation and interest in foreign policy
Interview Stage
Shortlisted candidates will participate in interviews conducted by HIIA colleagues.
Program Location and Time Commitment
The fellowship is conducted entirely in person.
Location
Hungarian Institute of International Affairs Headquarters
Budapest, Hungary
Commitment
- Approximately 30 hours per week
- Intensive in-person participation required
Applicants should carefully consider the program’s time commitment before applying.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 June 2026
- Interview Period: 6 July – 17 July 2026
- Results Announcement: 31 July 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: 1 September 2026
- Fellowship End Date: 30 November 2026
Applications for the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs Future Leaders Program 2026 Fall Edition close on 30 June 2026.
For more information about this opportunity, visit here.
Discover more Global Fellowship Opportunities on OFY here.
