The Global Majority AI Fellowship is a new initiative by the Heinrich Böll Foundation to support civil society experts from the Global South to participate in the first session of the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance. This fully funded fellowship covers travel, accommodation, and conference access, enabling fellows to engage in critical discussions on AI governance, digital rights, and equitable innovation.
The Heinrich Böll Foundation is a German political foundation affiliated with the Green Party, with offices worldwide including in Washington, DC. It focuses on promoting democracy, human rights, and ecological sustainability through various programs and fellowships. The foundation aims to amplify underrepresented voices in global policy debates, particularly those from the Global Majority.
Global Majority AI Fellowship Benefits
- Travel Costs to/from Switzerland
- Airport Transfer
- 3 Nights of Accommodation
Global Majority AI Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Eligible Regions: Candidates must be currently based in countries receiving Official Development Assistance (ODA).
- Experience Level: Emerging or experienced leaders and experts.
- Professional Background: Activists, local officials, students, researchers, or technologists.
- Core Focus Areas:
- AI governance
- Digital rights
- Data justice
- Environmental and climate justice (or related fields)
- Key Perspective: A strong focus on the global dimensions of AI policy.
Required Documents
- Resume
- Motivational statement
About the Fellowship
The Global Majority AI Fellowship supports individuals exploring how artificial intelligence affects society, policy, justice, culture, and communities worldwide.
The fellowship creates a collaborative space for participants to:
- Discuss AI governance and ethics
- explore technology and social justice
- conduct research and storytelling
- participate in workshops and mentorship sessions
- build international networks
Why This Fellowship Matters
Artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping economies, education, employment, governance, and media worldwide. This fellowship aims to ensure that voices from the Global Majority are included in discussions about:
- AI ethics
- digital rights
- equity and inclusion
- public policy
- responsible innovation
How to Apply for Global Majority AI Fellowship
- Apply to the official UN AI Dialogue 2026 Call for Participation Support via the provided link.
- Send application materials (Resume and Motivational statement) to the Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC via Drew.Mitnick[at]us.boell.org and Mariama.Balde[at]us.boell.org.
- Resume: Use a standard resume or CV format, maximum 2 pages, not including a picture or marital status. Include your country of residence and gender.
- Motivational statement: Write a short (max 300 words) reflection on the biggest challenge you see for AI governance right now, how you propose to address it, steps you are currently taking, and how your participation at the Global Dialogue will help you advance those goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Global Majority AI Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Global Majority AI Fellowship?
The Global Majority AI Fellowship is a fully funded program by the Heinrich Böll Foundation that supports civil society experts from the Global South to participate in the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva, Switzerland.
Who can apply for the Global Majority AI Fellowship?
Emerging or experienced leaders and experts working on AI governance, digital rights, data justice, environmental and climate justice, or related fields. Candidates must be based in countries receiving Official Development Assistance (ODA).
What are the benefits of the Global Majority AI Fellowship?
The fellowship covers international flights, airport transfers, up to three nights of accommodation in Geneva, conference registration, accreditation, and access. Fellows also receive visibility and a platform through social media promotion.
When and where will the Global Majority AI Fellowship take place?
The fellowship will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 6-7, 2026, at the United Nations Global Dialogue on AI Governance. A second session will follow in New York in May 2027.
What is the deadline for the Global Majority AI Fellowship?
The application deadline is rolling, meaning applications are accepted on an ongoing basis until all slots are filled. It is recommended to apply as early as possible.
How do I apply for the Global Majority AI Fellowship?
You must apply to the official UN AI Dialogue 2026 Call for Participation Support via the provided link and send your resume and motivational statement to the Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC via email.
What should be included in the motivational statement?
The motivational statement should be a maximum of 300 words reflecting on the biggest challenge you see for AI governance, how you propose to address it, steps you are currently taking, and how your participation will help advance those goals.
Is the Global Majority AI Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the fellowship is fully funded. It covers travel costs, accommodation, and conference registration. There is no application fee.
What are the focus areas of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance?
The focus areas include AI opportunities and implications, bridging AI divides, safe and trustworthy AI, and respecting human rights. The fellowship aims to ensure Global Majority voices are included in these discussions.
Who organizes the Global Majority AI Fellowship?
The fellowship is organized by the Heinrich Böll Foundation Washington, DC. The foundation is a German political foundation affiliated with the Green Party, focusing on democracy, human rights, and ecological sustainability.
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