The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) is offering a valuable opportunity for young professionals interested in foreign policy. Their Future Leaders Program, running from September 1 to November 30, 2026, provides a three-month fellowship in Budapest, Hungary. This program is designed to give participants hands-on experience in foreign policy research, international affairs, and policy development. It’s an excellent chance for aspiring experts to learn from seasoned professionals at one of Hungary’s leading foreign policy think tanks.
About the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs
The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) is a prominent research institute and think tank in Hungary. It plays a key role in foreign policy discussions by conducting research, offering analysis, and providing policy recommendations. The institute also engages with policymakers and other stakeholders. Through its Future Leaders Program, HIIA aims to support and develop bright young individuals who show strong academic abilities and a deep interest in international affairs.
Purpose of the Future Leaders Program
The HIIA Future Leaders Program was created to offer young professionals and recent graduates a unique chance to:
- Gain practical experience in foreign policy research.
- Deepen their understanding of Hungarian foreign policy.
- Work closely with experienced researchers and policy experts.
- Contribute to important research projects.
- Develop professional and leadership skills.
- Build connections within foreign policy and diplomatic circles.
Fellows will conduct research under the guidance of mentors and help with the work of HIIA’s research groups and project teams. The program also allows participants to explore their own research interests while supporting HIIA’s main research goals.
What Fellows Will Do
During the fellowship, participants will engage in various professional activities, including:
Research and Policy Analysis
Fellows will:
- Conduct research, both independently and as part of a team.
- Prepare research reports.
- Analyze current international affairs and geopolitical events.
- Contribute to policy discussions and publications.
Professional Development
Participants will receive training in:
- Foreign policy analysis.
- International relations.
- Leadership development.
- Public speaking.
- Strategic communication.
- Media engagement.
- Policy writing.
Networking Opportunities
The fellowship provides chances to:
- Interact with foreign policy experts.
- Attend public professional discussions.
- Engage with diplomatic and policy communities.
- Form professional relationships within Hungary’s foreign policy sector.
Key Research Areas
Applicants can choose to research within several regional and thematic fields.
Regional Studies
Research opportunities include:
- Western Balkans
- Eastern Europe
- Visegrád Cooperation
- Transatlantic Relations
- Middle East
- Turkic States
- Asia-Pacific Region
Thematic Studies
Participants can also focus on:
- Security Policy
- European Union Affairs
- Energy Policy
- Multipolarity
- Global Geopolitical Issues
- Connectivity
- Cultural Diplomacy
These research areas match HIIA’s main priorities and expose fellows to critical global issues.
Benefits of the HIIA Future Leaders Program
Selected fellows will receive several professional and financial advantages.
Professional Benefits
- Direct guidance from experienced policy professionals.
- Participation in special seminars and workshops.
- Training in leadership and communication.
- Practical experience in foreign policy research.
- Access to policy discussions and expert networks.
- Opportunity to contribute to strategic policy projects.
- Improved career prospects in diplomacy, government, academia, international organizations, and think tanks.
Financial Benefits
Participants will be hired under a:
- Three-month fixed-term fellowship contract.
- Gross financial compensation based on the successful completion of program milestones.
Milestones include:
- Attending educational seminars.
- Completing professional development activities.
- Submitting research reports.
- Presenting a personal research project.
Additional Benefits for International Fellows
Applicants from outside Hungary may receive extra support from HIIA. International fellows without a Hungarian residence permit might get:
- Round-trip travel support from HIIA.
- Monthly accommodation support through a fixed financial contribution.
This extra help can reduce the cost of participating in the program from abroad.
Important Information for International Applicants
International fellows are responsible for:
- Getting the necessary visa for Hungary.
- Arranging their own accommodation.
However, HIIA will help with the visa application process for successful candidates. Applicants should check Hungary’s visa requirements before applying.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Future Leaders Program 2026, applicants must:
- Have at least a Bachelor’s degree.
- Be under 30 years of age.
- Show a strong interest in foreign policy and international affairs.
- Have strong English language skills.
- Be able to participate in the program in person in Budapest.
Preferred academic backgrounds include:
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- History
- Diplomacy
Applicants from similar fields may also be considered.
Required Application Documents
All documents must be submitted in English. Required documents include:
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Maximum length: Two pages.
2. Cover Letter
- Maximum length: One page.
3. Writing Sample
- Between 3,000 and 5,000 characters, including spaces.
4. English Language Certificate
- Minimum proficiency level: C1.
Only complete applications with all required documents will be reviewed.
Selection Process
The selection process involves:
Application Review
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Academic qualifications.
- Research potential.
- Writing ability.
- Motivation and interest in foreign policy.
Interview Stage
Candidates who pass the initial review will be interviewed by HIIA staff.
Program Location and Time Commitment
The fellowship requires full-time, in-person participation.
Location
Hungarian Institute of International Affairs Headquarters
Budapest, Hungary
Commitment
- Approximately 30 hours per week.
- Intensive in-person participation is necessary.
Applicants should carefully consider the program’s time commitment before applying.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
- Interview Period: July 6 – July 17, 2026
- Results Announcement: July 31, 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: September 1, 2026
- Fellowship End Date: November 30, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Future Leaders Program?
The Future Leaders Program is a three-month fellowship offered by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) in Budapest, designed to give young professionals practical experience in foreign policy research and development.
When does the program take place?
The program runs from September 1 to November 30, 2026.
What are the main responsibilities of a fellow?
Fellows will conduct research, analyze international affairs, contribute to policy discussions, and participate in professional development and networking events.
What are the eligibility requirements for the program?
Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree, be under 30 years old, have strong English skills, and demonstrate a keen interest in foreign policy and international affairs.
