Deadline: January 16, 2026
The Arthur C. Helton Fellowship Program 2026 is a prestigious global opportunity designed to support law students and early-career professionals who are passionate about advancing international law, human rights, and humanitarian affairs. The program offers financial assistance to those conducting fieldwork or research on critical global issues impacting refugees, displaced persons, and vulnerable communities.
About the Arthur C. Helton Fellowship Program 2026
Established by the American Society of International Law (ASIL) in honor of Arthur C. Helton — a renowned expert on refugees and human rights — this fellowship continues his legacy of promoting social justice and humanitarian work worldwide. The program provides micro-grants to promising professionals pursuing meaningful projects that address pressing challenges in international law and humanitarian fields.
Application Deadline and Timeline
- Application Deadline: January 16, 2026
- Awards Announcement: March 2026
- Fieldwork Period: April – September 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early, as incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Who Can Apply
The Arthur C. Helton Fellowship Program 2026 welcomes applications from individuals who demonstrate a strong interest in international law, human rights, and related disciplines. Eligible candidates include:
- Current law students enrolled in accredited institutions
- Recent law graduates who completed their studies no earlier than December 2022
- Early-career professionals working in law, policy, or international humanitarian sectors
Applicants of all nationalities are eligible to apply.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive a $2,000 micro-grant to support their fieldwork or research project. The funds can be used to cover:
- Travel expenses
- Accommodation and living costs
- Research and data collection
- Other project-related expenditures
This financial support enables fellows to engage directly with affected communities, gather insights, and contribute meaningfully to international human rights and humanitarian law.
Focus Areas and Eligible Projects
The fellowship supports innovative projects that contribute to the advancement of international law and human rights. Projects should include a strong fieldwork or research component and may focus on areas such as:
- International Humanitarian Law
- Refugee and Migrant Rights
- Protection of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
- Humanitarian Affairs and Crisis Response
- International Criminal Law
- Advocacy for Vulnerable or Marginalized Populations
Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that demonstrate practical impact and relevance to current global challenges.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application package containing the following:
- Completed Helton Fellowship application form
- Detailed project budget outlining expenses and funding needs
- Writing sample (no longer than 10 pages)
- Updated CV or résumé
- Proof of current enrollment or official documentation confirming graduation date
- Letter of support from a sponsoring organization (such as an NGO, university, or government agency)
- Two letters of recommendation from qualified referees
Important: Applicants must secure their sponsoring institution before applying. The fellowship does not assist in arranging project placements or sponsors.
How to Apply
To apply, candidates should compile all required documents and send them via email to:
Ensure that your application is complete and submitted before the deadline. Late or incomplete submissions will not be reviewed.
About Arthur C. Helton
Arthur C. Helton was a distinguished lawyer, advocate, and humanitarian who dedicated his life to refugee protection and human rights advocacy. His untimely death in the 2003 bombing of the UN mission in Baghdad inspired the creation of this fellowship, which honors his lifelong commitment to justice and global peace. The Arthur C. Helton Fellowship Program 2026 continues to empower emerging professionals to follow in his footsteps by making tangible contributions to the international community.
Conclusion
The Arthur C. Helton Fellowship Program 2026 offers a unique platform for emerging lawyers and humanitarian professionals to transform their passion for justice into actionable, field-based impact. With a focus on research and advocacy, this fellowship helps participants gain practical experience while addressing some of the world’s most urgent humanitarian challenges.
If you’re passionate about making a difference through law and humanitarian work, this fellowship is an invaluable opportunity to start your journey.
🔗 Click here to Apply for the Arthur C. Helton Fellowship Program 2026
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