United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) Women in AI Fully Funded Fellowship 2026 for women diplomats – Apply Now

Application deadline: 24 February, 2026

The opportunity to apply for the 2026 United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) Women in AI Fellowship is now available. Up-to-the-minute knowledge of AI’s policy, legal, and technical dimensions is provided to women diplomats through this capacity-building initiative. The knowhow, skills, resources, and networks required for effective participation in multilateral AI discussions pertaining to international peace and security will be acquired by the Fellows. A core objective of the fellowship is to empower future women leaders so they can navigate and influence the global governance frameworks for emerging military and security technologies.

Program Structure
A week-long in-person training program in Geneva constitutes the fellowship, which is organized around three core components:
Education: A substantive introduction will be delivered by UNIDIR researchers and collaborating experts, covering: AI technology, including its inherent strengths and limitations, Potential and observed applications of AI in security contexts, Associated international security concerns, the background and current state of multilateral AI policy and governance dialogues and the linkages between military applications of AI and considerations of international law, ethics, and gender.

Exploration: Interactions with stakeholders in technical and academic environments will be facilitated for fellows, allowing them to observe AI in practical use. This component includes receiving targeted briefings to gain a clearer understanding of the ecosystems responsible for AI design, development, deployment, and governance.

Networking: Connections with key diplomatic, private sector, and civil society stakeholders are streamlined by UNIDIR. This encompasses: The organization of a reception with Geneva’s diplomatic community. A series of virtual meetings with a diverse group of experts working at the intersection of gender, security, and technology. Inclusion in the UNIDIR Alumni Network and the UNIDIR Expert Network on the Governance of AI in the Military Domain.
 
Eligibility Requirements
Women diplomats and government representatives who meet the following conditions are eligible:
They are at a junior to mid-career professional level and they represent a UN Member State. They possess a strong command of the English language, both written and spoken and they exhibit a clear interest in the fields of security, technology, and/or gender.

Fellowship Benefits

• Completely Funded Program: No charges are incurred for the fellowship training.
• Travel & Accommodation Support: A select number of participants will be offered financial assistance for travel to and lodging in Geneva, with priority extended to fellows from developing countries.
• Curriculum Led by Experts: Instruction is provided directly by UNIDIR researchers and leading specialists in the field.
• Prestigious Professional Network: Entry into and membership of high-level diplomatic, private sector, and expert networks is granted.
• Career Advancement: Capacity to contribute meaningfully to vital international forums on AI governance is significantly enhanced.

Selection Criteria

A careful screening of all applications based on the stated eligibility requirements will be conducted by UNIDIR. Additional consideration during the selection process will be given to:

• The relevance and quality of the applicant’s professional background.
• A demonstrated commitment and the potential to add value to discussions on AI governance.
• The strength of the official nomination and accompanying recommendation letters.
• The objective of ensuring a regionally diverse cohort of fellows.

Important Note: Multiple nominations from a single UN Member State or Delegation are permissible, the selection of only one fellow per entity will be made by UNIDIR to promote regional diversity.

Key Dates

• 24 February 2026: The final deadline for all applications (midnight CET).
• Mid-March 2026: Selected fellows will be announced.
• 8–12 June 2026: The in-person training will be held in Geneva.

How to Apply

1. Nomination Process: A formal nomination by the candidate’s UN Member State or the Delegation of an international/regional organization, submitted through their diplomatic representation, is mandatory.
2. Document Submission: The following supporting documents must be sent via email to sectec-unidir@un.org. The subject line must read: “2026 UNIDIR Women in AI Fellowship Application”.

1. A copy of the applicant’s passport.
2. A Curriculum Vitae not exceeding two pages.
3. Two letters of recommendation, one of which must originate from the applicant’s national government or their diplomatic mission to the UN.
4. A one-page letter of interest outlining relevant experience, motivation for the fellowship, and a plan for utilizing the acquired knowledge.
5. Submission Rule: The applicant’s personal email address must be copied (CC’d) on the submission email sent to UNIDIR.

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