The Marianne Initiative for Human Rights Defenders 2026 is now open for applications, offering a unique opportunity for activists worldwide to spend an intensive, fully funded semester in France. Designed to support individuals working on the frontlines of human rights, this prestigious fellowship provides not only professional development but also a safe space to reflect, recharge, and strengthen global networks.

Launched in 2021 by French President Emmanuel Macron, the programme is led by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and managed by the Association Marianne.

Scholarship Overview

• Fully Funded

• France Universities

• Fellowship

• All Subjects

• International Students

• France

Degree Level

This is a non-degree fellowship programme focused on professional training, leadership development, and capacity building for human rights defenders.

Programme Duration

• 18 weeks (approximately 4–6 months)
• Conducted in Paris, France

Available Subjects

The fellowship covers a wide range of practical and academic areas, including:

• Human Rights and International Law
• Advocacy and Public Policy
• Leadership and Negotiation
• Project Management
• Defender Safety and Protection Mechanisms
• Civil Liberties and Social Justice
• Environmental and Minority Rights

Benefits

Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package, including:

• Fully funded stay in France
• Monthly living stipend
• Free accommodation
• Tailored training programme
• One-on-one mentorship
• Access to French and international institutions
• Networking with NGOs, legal experts, and policymakers
• Participation in conferences, workshops, and cultural activities
• Membership in the Marianne Alumni global network

Beyond material benefits, the programme provides a safe and supportive environment for defenders working under pressure to rest and refocus.

Eligible Nationalities

• Open to international applicants worldwide
• Candidates must be applying from their home country or a third country

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be human rights defenders actively working on issues such as:
  • Civil and political rights
  • Women’s rights
  • Minority protections
  • Children’s rights
  • Environmental justice
• Demonstrate a strong track record of activism
• Provide supporting documents and proof of work
• Apply through the official French government platform
• Be committed to using the experience to create impact in their communities

Application Procedure

1. Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the official French government portal.
2. Document SubmissionProvide identity documents and evidence of your human rights work.
3. Selection ProcessApplications are reviewed by an independent expert committee.
4. Final SelectionAround 15 fellows are selected annually from a global pool of applicants.

Important Deadline

• Application Deadline: 4 May 2026

Programme Impact

The Marianne Initiative was created in response to the global decline in fundamental freedoms. Since its launch, it has supported multiple cohorts of defenders, building a strong international network known as the Marianne Alumni.

The initiative also extends globally through partnerships with organizations such as the Agence Française de Développement and Agir Ensemble pour les droits humains, ensuring long-term impact in participants’ home countries.