Overview
This is a non-degree fellowship programme focused on professional training, leadership development, and capacity building for human rights defenders.
Description
This is a non-degree fellowship programme focused on professional training, leadership development, and capacity building for human rights defenders.
Eligibility
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
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
Additional Information
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
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
Online Application Submit your application through the official French government portal.
Document Submission Provide identity documents and evidence of your human rights work.
Selection Process Applications are reviewed by an independent expert committee.
Final Selection Around 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.
Frequently Asked Questions Faqs
Is the Marianne Initiative fully funded? Yes, the fellowship covers accommodation, stipend, training, and other programme-related costs.
Do I need to be based in France to apply? No, the programme is specifically designed for international human rights defenders applying from outside France.
How competitive is the programme? It is highly competitive, with only around 15 fellows selected each year from hundreds of global applicants.
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Funding
Fully Funded
Organization
France Universities
Degree
Fellowship
Subjects
All Subjects
Nationality
International Students
Country
France
Source
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