Applications are now open for the 2026 William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding, a prestigious leadership development programme offered by The Asia Foundation (TAF) for emerging peacebuilders from Asia and the Pacific. Designed to support the next generation of leaders working in peacebuilding, conflict transformation, mediation, advocacy, policy, and community engagement, the fellowship provides a year-long professional development experience that combines international exposure, leadership training, networking, and project support.
Each year, the fellowship selects a small cohort of exceptional professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing peace and addressing conflict challenges in their communities and countries. Through immersive learning experiences, engagement with global experts, and dedicated professional development funding, the fellowship equips participants with the knowledge, networks, and skills needed to strengthen their impact.
For 2026, three fellows will be selected to participate in this highly competitive programme, which includes a two-week study tour in the United States, virtual leadership development seminars, and a professional development grant worth USD 2,500.
About the William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding
The William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding is The Asia Foundation’s flagship leadership development initiative focused on peacebuilding and conflict transformation.
Established in 2004 by The Asia Foundation’s Board of Trustees, the fellowship honors William P. Fuller, who served as President of The Asia Foundation for 15 years. The programme reflects his commitment to nurturing emerging leaders dedicated to peace, stability, and social cohesion throughout Asia and the Pacific.
The fellowship is supported through privately endowed funds and seeks to empower professionals whose work contributes to building peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies.
As conflict dynamics continue to evolve throughout the region, there is increasing demand for leaders capable of:
- Bridging social, political, and cultural divides
- Facilitating dialogue among diverse stakeholders
- Promoting peaceful conflict resolution
- Designing locally grounded peacebuilding solutions
- Strengthening social cohesion
- Supporting reconciliation processes
- Addressing root causes of conflict
The Fuller Fellowship aims to strengthen the leadership capacity of individuals already working in these areas.
Why This Fellowship Matters
The Asia-Pacific region continues to experience complex conflict and peacebuilding challenges, including:
- Political instability
- Social fragmentation
- Identity-based conflicts
- Community-level disputes
- Governance challenges
- Resource conflicts
- Emerging security concerns
Addressing these issues requires innovative leaders who can combine research, policy engagement, community-based approaches, and collaborative problem-solving.
The William P. Fuller Fellowship supports such leaders by helping them expand their influence, strengthen their networks, and gain access to global best practices in peacebuilding.
What the Fellowship Offers
The fellowship provides a comprehensive leadership development experience lasting one year.
1. Two-Week Study Tour in the United States
One of the most valuable components of the fellowship is an intensive study tour and professional exchange programme.
Selected fellows will travel to:
- San Francisco Bay Area
- New York City
- Washington, D.C.
Study Tour Dates
10–21 November 2026
During the visit, fellows will engage with:
- Peacebuilding practitioners
- Policymakers
- Academic experts
- Civil society leaders
- Researchers
- Government representatives
- International development professionals
The study tour provides exposure to diverse approaches to peacebuilding and conflict transformation from both local and global perspectives.
2. Leadership Development Seminars
Fellows will participate in virtual learning sessions delivered through The Asia Foundation’s Leadership & Exchange Programmes.
Topics may include:
- Leadership development
- Peacebuilding strategies
- Conflict transformation
- Negotiation and mediation
- Policy engagement
- Systems thinking
- Strategic communication
- Stakeholder engagement
3. Professional Development Grant
Each fellow receives:
USD 2,500 Professional Development Grant
The grant can be used to support:
- A self-designed project
- Professional learning goals
- Research initiatives
- Leadership development activities
- Community engagement projects
- Capacity-building efforts
This funding enables fellows to pursue initiatives that strengthen their long-term impact.
4. International Professional Network
Participants gain access to an influential network of:
- Peacebuilding experts
- Regional leaders
- Civil society practitioners
- Researchers
- Policymakers
- Alumni fellows
This network often becomes a long-term source of collaboration and professional support.
Fellowship Objectives
The programme seeks to:
- Strengthen leadership skills among emerging peacebuilders.
- Expand professional networks across Asia and the Pacific.
- Support innovative approaches to conflict transformation.
- Encourage cross-border collaboration.
- Promote dialogue and mutual understanding.
- Advance sustainable peacebuilding efforts throughout the region.
- Develop future leaders capable of responding to evolving conflict challenges.
Who Should Apply?
The fellowship targets early- and mid-career professionals actively contributing to peacebuilding and conflict transformation.
Applicants may be working in areas such as:
- Research
- Public policy
- Mediation
- Community engagement
- Peace advocacy
- Dialogue facilitation
- Human rights
- Conflict resolution
- Social cohesion
- Governance
- Development programming
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirement
Applicants must be:
- 40 years old or younger during the programme year
- Born after 13 October 1986
Geographic Eligibility
Applicants must come from a country where The Asia Foundation has a presence.
U.S. Travel Eligibility
Applicants must be able to secure a visa to travel to the United States.
Special note:
Candidates from:
- Myanmar
- Afghanistan
- Laos
must currently be based in the United States.
Language Requirement
Applicants must be fluent in:
- Written English
- Spoken English
Professional Experience
Strong candidates typically have:
- At least three years of professional experience
- Demonstrated leadership capacity
- Experience advancing peacebuilding efforts through research or practice
Commitment Requirement
Applicants must be able to commit fully to all fellowship activities and programme dates.
Characteristics of Strong Candidates
The Asia Foundation is particularly interested in candidates who:
- Demonstrate leadership potential
- Are committed to peacebuilding in the Asia-Pacific region
- Value collaboration and learning
- Seek to expand professional networks
- Show initiative and innovation
- Are willing to complete self-directed learning
- Have a clear vision for their future contributions to peacebuilding
Programme Impact
Since its creation, the fellowship has helped develop a growing network of peacebuilding leaders throughout Asia and the Pacific.
Participants often go on to:
- Lead peace initiatives
- Influence policy reforms
- Conduct impactful research
- Strengthen civil society organizations
- Facilitate community dialogue
- Build regional partnerships
The fellowship serves as a platform for long-term leadership development and collaboration.
Application Timeline
Applications Open
10 June 2026
Applications Close
12 July 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early and prepare supporting materials well before the deadline.
Why You Should Apply
The William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding is one of the most prestigious opportunities available for emerging peacebuilders in Asia and the Pacific.
The fellowship offers far more than professional training. It provides:
- International exposure
- Leadership development
- Global networking opportunities
- Access to leading experts
- Financial support for professional growth
- Long-term membership in a regional peacebuilding network
For professionals dedicated to promoting peace, dialogue, and conflict transformation, this fellowship offers a unique opportunity to strengthen their leadership journey and amplify their impact.
Click HERE for more information about the William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding 2026.
Conclusion
The 2026 William P. Fuller Fellowship in Peacebuilding represents an exceptional opportunity for emerging leaders working to build more peaceful and inclusive societies across Asia and the Pacific. Through international exchanges, leadership development, mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support, the fellowship equips participants with the tools needed to address complex peace and conflict challenges in their communities. As societies across the region navigate increasingly complex social and political dynamics, the need for innovative and collaborative peacebuilders has never been greater. This fellowship offers a powerful platform for rising leaders to expand their influence, strengthen their expertise, and contribute meaningfully to lasting peace.
Discover more global Fellowship and Asian opportunities on OFY.
