Deadline: February 9, 2026
The Women’s Refugee Commission Fellowship 2026 presents a unique opportunity for researchers dedicated to advancing gender equality, justice, and inclusive humanitarian policy. This prestigious fellowship is designed for early to mid-career women researchers working at the intersection of gender, displacement, and humanitarian response.
Applications for the Women’s Refugee Commission Fellowship 2026 close on 9 February 2026.
About the Fellowship
The Women’s Refugee Commission (WRC) is a global leader in promoting the rights and protection of displaced women, youth, and children. The Humanitarian Futures: Gender, Displacement, and Justice Fellowship 2026 supports feminist, community-based research that challenges traditional humanitarian approaches.
The fellowship encourages innovative research led by women and aims to influence global policy through grounded, participatory insights that centre the experiences and leadership of displaced populations.
Research Focus Areas
Applicants are invited to propose research that aligns with the WRC’s mission and vision. Possible focus areas include:
- Redefining protection for displaced women and girls
- Examining gender, power, and systems change in humanitarian responses
- Investigating reproductive health and bodily autonomy in crisis settings
- Promoting dignified and gender-inclusive self-reliance
- Exploring rights and justice under national laws and policies
Researchers are also welcome to propose new topics that contribute to advancing feminist and humanitarian discourse.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to early to mid-career women researchers who meet the following criteria:
- Hold or are enrolled in a Master’s or PhD in disciplines such as social sciences, gender studies, public health, or related fields
- Possess 3–10 years of relevant research experience
- Have direct experience in displacement, migration, or humanitarian contexts
- Demonstrate commitment to participatory and community-led research
- Are proficient in English
Applicants who may not meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply, as the programme values diversity and emerging voices.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support to conduct impactful research, including:
- A research stipend to fund project activities
- Mentorship and academic guidance from WRC experts
- Peer learning opportunities through a global cohort of researchers
- Platforms to publish and present research outcomes
This fellowship is an exceptional chance to gain international visibility and contribute meaningfully to policy and practice in humanitarian action.
Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted by 9 February 2026 and should include:
- Statement of Interest / Cover Letter (maximum 800 words) outlining motivation and relevance to the fellowship
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – not exceeding 3 pages
- Research Proposal (maximum 1,500 words) describing research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
- Two Writing Samples related to research or analytical work (combined maximum of 50 pages)
- Two Professional References with contact details
Fellowship Duration
The Women’s Refugee Commission Fellowship 2026 runs for approximately eight months, during which fellows will engage in independent research, mentorship sessions, and collaborative knowledge-sharing.
Why You Should Apply
The Women’s Refugee Commission Fellowship 2026 is more than an academic opportunity—it’s a platform to influence humanitarian systems, amplify women’s leadership, and redefine protection and justice for displaced populations. Fellows will join a dynamic community of advocates and scholars dedicated to creating gender-transformative change in crisis settings.
How to Apply
Applicants can submit their complete application package through the official portal below.
📘 Read more about the Programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
