HIIA Future Leaders Program 2025 is now accepting applications for its fully funded international leadership opportunity in Budapest, Hungary. Hosted by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA), this three-month program runs from September 15 to December 15, 2025, and invites aspiring leaders from around the world to participate. It offers a unique chance to explore global diplomacy, gain firsthand experience in international relations, and understand Hungary’s foreign policy—right from the heart of Europe.
This prestigious program is designed for graduates and professionals with a keen interest in foreign affairs, public policy, or global governance. There is no application fee, and IELTS/TOEFL scores are not required to apply. The HIIA Future Leaders Program 2025 includes financial support and professional development opportunities, making it an ideal launchpad for emerging global changemakers. Keep reading for detailed information on eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
Program Summary
- Country: Hungary
- Host: Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA)
- Location: Budapest
- Duration: 3 Months
- Dates: 15 September to 15 December 2025
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 8 August 2025
Benefits of the HIIA Future Leaders Program
- Round Airfare Tickets.
- Accommodation Expense.
- Visa support provided.
- No application fee.
Eligibility Criteria for the HIIA Future Leaders Program
- Nationality: Open to all.
- Fresh Minds, Global Focus: Recent graduates (Bachelor’s minimum) passionate about foreign policy.
- Academic Roots: Ideal candidates typically hold degrees in:
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- History
- International Economics
- Related fields are considered individually.
- Age Limit: Must be under 30 years old.
Required Documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
- Writing Sample of 3000-5000 characters.
Objectives of the HIIA Future Leaders Program
- Dive Deep into Diplomacy: Immerse yourself in Hungarian foreign policy and HIIA’s core work.
- Expert-Guided Research: Conduct impactful research with professional mentorship.
- Shape the Dialogue: Contribute to HIIA’s strategic priorities through your own regional or thematic research.
- Skill Up for Success: Benefit from extensive training in foreign policy, leadership, public speaking, and media.
- Network & Grow: Engage in public discussions and connect with Hungary’s foreign policy elite.
Research Topics
- Regional studies: Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Visegrád cooperation, Transatlantic relations, Middle East, Turkic States, Asia-Pacific.
- Thematic studies: Security policy, Energy policy, Multipolarity, Global geopolitical issues, Connectivity, Family policy in international context, Cultural diplomacy.
Timeline
- Interviews: August 11 – 15, 2025.
- Results Announcement: September 1, 2025.
- Fellowship Start Date: September 15, 2025.
- Fellowship End Date: December 15, 2025.
How to Apply for the HIIA Future Leaders Program
- Visit the official HIIA website.
- Apply online through the application portal.
- Fill in your personal, academic, and professional details.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The HIIA Future Leaders Program is a fully‑funded, English‑medium, three‑month fellowship in Budapest (15 Sept–15 Dec 2025). It’s open to international researchers under 30, covering visa support, travel, lodging stipend, research mentoring, seminars, and policy networking.
What is the HIIA Future Leaders Program?
The HIIA Future Leaders Program is a three‑month fellowship hosted by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) in English, offering research mentorship, professional training, and engagement in Hungarian foreign policy analysis.
Who can apply to the Future Leaders Program?
Applicants must be recent graduates (minimum bachelor’s degree) or young researchers under 30 years old in related fields like international relations, political science, history, philosophy, or international economics.
When does the 2025 Fall edition run?
The 2025 Fall edition runs from 15 September 2025 to 15 December 2025, conducted in person at HIIA’s headquarters in Budapest.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 8 August 2025 via the official online application form on the HIIA website.
What documents are required to apply?
Candidates must upload in English: a CV (max 2 pages), a cover letter (max 1 page), and a writing sample of 3,000–5,000 characters (including spaces).
What research topics are covered during the program?
Fellows explore regional topics like Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Transatlantic relations, Turkic states, and thematic subjects: security, energy policy, connectivity, cultural diplomacy.
What are the benefits of the fellowship?
International fellows receive round‑trip travel, monthly accommodation stipend (~200 000 HUF ≈€480), milestone‑based contract, seminars, mentorship, and access to policy networks.
Is knowledge of Hungarian required?
No, the entire program is delivered in English, and all application materials must be submitted in English.
What is the weekly commitment of participants?
Fellows are expected to work approximately 30 hours per week in person at HIIA headquarters at Bajza utca 44, Budapest, during the program.
How are fellows selected and notified?
After application submission by 8 August 2025, shortlisted candidates are interviewed between 11–15 August, with final results announced on 1 September 2025.
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