The Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 offers emerging researchers and young professionals an opportunity to explore European security policy in Munich, Germany. The fellowship combines policy research, expert discussions, practical workshops, and international networking.
The program runs from December 2026 to February 2027. During this period, up to eight selected fellows will attend the Bavarian Winter School on Trade and Security, join collaborative Policy Labs, and contribute to discussions about Europe’s political and security challenges.
The organizers provide free participation in the Winter School, along with travel and accommodation subsidies. However, these subsidies may not cover every expense.
Applicants must be under 35 and have a background in international relations, security studies, political science, economics, or law.
The application deadline is 11 November 2026.
Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | Young Security Conference Fellowship |
| Host country | Germany |
| Main location | Munich |
| Program duration | December 2026 – February 2027 |
| Program format | In-person and online |
| Number of fellows | Up to 8 |
| Age requirement | Under 35 years |
| Eligible applicants | Emerging researchers and young professionals |
| Relevant fields | International Relations, Security Studies, Political Science, Economics, Law |
| Funding | Winter School fee waiver, travel and accommodation subsidies |
| Main activities | Winter School, Policy Labs, expert discussions, public side event |
| Application method | |
| Required documents | CV, motivation letter, short proposal |
| Application deadline | 11 November 2026 |
| Official website | https://www.youngsecurityconference.com/ |
What Is the Young Security Conference Fellowship?
The Young Security Conference Fellowship is a professional development and policy research opportunity.
It connects emerging scholars and young professionals with experts working on European security and international affairs.
The fellowship encourages participants to examine security challenges from different academic and professional perspectives.
Unlike a traditional classroom course, the program emphasizes collaborative research and practical policy development.
Selected fellows will work together to examine the relationship between democracy, economic resilience, and European security.
They will also develop policy ideas and discuss their findings with other participants.
Moreover, the program provides opportunities to engage with experienced researchers, policymakers, and international experts.
The fellowship includes both in-person and online activities.
Therefore, applicants must be available for the complete program rather than only one conference.
Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 Theme
The official theme is:
Liberal Democracy in Crisis: Why Liberal Democracy is the Prerequisite for a Strong Europe
The fellowship explores the relationship between democratic institutions and European security.
Participants will consider how political instability, democratic challenges, and international pressures affect Europe’s future.
The program encourages critical discussion and evidence-based policy analysis.
Why Does This Theme Matter?
European countries face complex political, economic, and security challenges.
These challenges include international conflict, economic uncertainty, disinformation, and threats to democratic institutions.
At the same time, European governments must coordinate their responses to regional and global developments.
The fellowship provides a setting where participants can examine these issues through research and dialogue.
Rather than focusing only on military security, the program connects security policy with political institutions, economic stability, and international cooperation.
Main Research Areas
Participants may explore subjects such as:
- European security and defense policy
- Democratic institutions and political resilience
- International cooperation
- Economic security
- Hybrid threats
- Political decision-making
- Transatlantic relations
- Security governance
- European integration
- International law and policy
The exact research activities will follow the organizers’ program and the selected fellows’ proposals.
Who Organizes the Fellowship?
Several German and European organizations jointly organize the Young Security Conference.
These include:
Stiftung Bayerisches Amerikahaus München
Amerikahaus Munich promotes international understanding and transatlantic dialogue.
It hosts discussions, educational activities, and events connected with politics, culture, and international relations.
The fellowship’s in-person Policy Labs take place in Munich.
BayFrance
BayFrance supports cooperation between Bavaria and France.
Its work helps strengthen academic, institutional, and international connections.
Bavarian Research Alliance for Peace, Conflict and Security
The Bavarian Research Alliance for Peace, Conflict and Security, known as FoKS, brings together expertise in peace, conflict, and security research.
It contributes an academic perspective to the program.
Thomas-Dehler-Stiftung
The Thomas Dehler Foundation supports political education and public discussion.
Its activities address democracy, civic participation, and political issues.
Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation promotes political education, international dialogue, and liberal democratic principles.
Together, these organizations support the fellowship’s research and networking activities.
Young Security Conference Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive several academic and professional benefits.
However, applicants should distinguish between confirmed free participation and financial subsidies.
1. Free Bavarian Winter School Participation
Fellows can attend the Bavarian Winter School on Trade and Security without paying its participation fee.
The Winter School introduces participants to important questions in trade, economic security, and international relations.
It also provides opportunities to exchange ideas with other researchers and professionals.
2. Travel Subsidies
The organizers offer financial support for travel connected with the mandatory in-person program phases.
This support can help participants travel to Munich.
However, the official announcement describes the assistance as a subsidy.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that the organizers will cover the entire cost of international travel.
3. Accommodation Subsidies
Selected fellows can receive support for accommodation during the Munich activities.
The amount and conditions depend on the organizers’ arrangements.
Applicants should confirm the available support before booking accommodation.
4. Expert Discussions
The fellowship includes direct exchanges with researchers, policymakers, and security experts.
Participants can explore different approaches to European security challenges.
They may also receive feedback on their policy ideas.
5. International Networking
The program brings together people with different academic and professional experiences.
Fellows can develop connections with researchers, policy professionals, and other participants.
These relationships may support future academic or professional collaboration.
6. Practical Policy Experience
Participants will work on policy-related questions through collaborative activities.
They can develop analytical skills and learn how to present research findings to a professional audience.
7. Public Event Experience
The fellowship includes an opportunity to organize a public side event connected with the Munich Security Conference 2027.
This experience can help participants develop event planning, communication, and policy engagement skills.
However, participation in a related side event does not automatically guarantee admission to the main Munich Security Conference.
Is the Young Security Conference Fellowship Fully Funded?
The fellowship provides financial support, but applicants should not treat it as an unconditional fully funded scholarship.
The organizers confirm:
- Free participation in the Bavarian Winter School
- Travel subsidies
- Accommodation subsidies
- Expert discussions
- International networking
- Practical policy development opportunities
However, the official announcement does not clearly guarantee:
- Full international airfare reimbursement
- A monthly living stipend
- Complete meal coverage
- Visa fee reimbursement
- Health insurance
- Personal expenses
Therefore, applicants should describe the opportunity as a supported fellowship with travel and accommodation subsidies.
Selected candidates should confirm the exact funding arrangements directly with the organizers.
Young Security Conference Fellowship Program Structure
The fellowship combines in-person activities in Germany with an online working phase.
Phase 1: Bavarian Winter School – December 2026
The program begins with the Bavarian Winter School on Trade and Security.
The Winter School is scheduled for 4–5 December 2026.
Participants will explore international trade and security issues.
They will also meet other researchers and professionals interested in European policy.
This stage introduces important concepts that can support the fellows’ later work.
Phase 2: First Policy Lab – December 2026
After the Winter School, fellows participate in an in-person Policy Lab in Munich.
The Policy Lab provides an opportunity to develop research questions and discuss policy challenges.
Participants will work collaboratively on the fellowship theme.
They may also refine their proposals and identify practical policy recommendations.
The organizers will provide the final schedule to selected fellows.
Phase 3: Online Working Period – January 2027
The fellowship continues online during January 2027.
Participants will develop their research and policy ideas.
They can also collaborate remotely with other fellows.
This phase helps connect the initial discussions with the final in-person activities.
Because the work takes place online, participants should maintain regular communication and meet the organizers’ deadlines.
Phase 4: Second Policy Lab – February 2027
Fellows return to Munich for another in-person working phase.
They will further develop their policy proposals and prepare for public engagement.
The sessions may include discussions with experts and other program participants.
Phase 5: Public Side Event – February 2027
The fellowship concludes with an opportunity to organize a public event in the context of the Munich Security Conference 2027.
This activity allows fellows to share their ideas with a broader audience.
It also provides experience in policy communication and event organization.
The final format and access arrangements will depend on the organizers.
Young Security Conference Fellowship Timeline
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Official call published | 5 November 2026 |
| Application deadline | 11 November 2026 |
| Bavarian Winter School | 4–5 December 2026 |
| First Policy Lab | December 2026 |
| Online working phase | January 2027 |
| Second Policy Lab | February 2027 |
| Public side event | February 2027 |
| Fellowship concludes | February 2027 |
Applicants should confirm the exact travel dates and mandatory attendance requirements through the full official call.
Young Security Conference Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship targets emerging researchers and young professionals.
Applicants must meet several requirements.
1. Age Requirement
Applicants must be under 35 years old.
Candidates should check the full official call for any additional age-related conditions.
2. Relevant Academic or Professional Background
Applicants should have experience or training in one of the following fields:
- International Relations
- Security Studies
- Political Science
- Economics
- Law
The program may also interest candidates whose work connects these disciplines.
However, applicants should demonstrate a clear connection to European security or international policy.
3. Research or Professional Interest
Candidates should show genuine interest in security policy and European affairs.
Relevant activities may include:
- Academic research
- Policy analysis
- International affairs
- Political research
- Legal studies
- Security-related projects
- Public policy initiatives
- Think tank activities
- Government or civil society work
4. Ability to Contribute to Discussions
The fellowship emphasizes collaboration.
Therefore, applicants should be ready to share ideas and engage respectfully with different perspectives.
5. Availability
Fellows must participate in the in-person activities in Munich.
They must also complete the online working phase.
6. Strong Motivation
Applicants should explain why they want to join the fellowship.
They should also describe how their experience relates to the program’s theme.
Can International Applicants Apply?
The fellowship includes opportunities for applicants from outside Germany.
However, the number of places is limited.
The detailed call describes an allocation of places across different institutional and regional groups, including Bavaria, France, other European countries, and international participants.
Therefore, applicants should review the full call to determine which group applies to them.
Candidates outside Europe should not assume that every place is open to unrestricted worldwide competition.
Instead, they should confirm their eligibility through the official application document.
How Many Fellows Will Be Selected?
The organizers plan to select up to eight fellows.
This makes the fellowship highly competitive.
Applicants should focus on demonstrating relevant experience and a clear policy interest.
However, meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection.
Documents Required for the Fellowship
Applicants must prepare three main documents.
The organizers require applicants to combine them into a single PDF.
1. Curriculum Vitae
Prepare an updated CV in English.
The detailed application guidance specifies a maximum of two pages.
Include:
- Full name
- Contact details
- Date of birth
- Education
- Relevant professional experience
- Research activities
- Publications, where relevant
- Policy or security-related experience
- Relevant skills
Focus on information connected with the fellowship.
2. Motivation Letter
Prepare a motivation letter in English.
The detailed guidance specifies a maximum of one page.
Your letter should explain:
- Why you want to join the fellowship
- Your interest in European security
- Your relevant academic or professional experience
- What you hope to contribute
- How the program connects with your future goals
Avoid generic statements.
Instead, provide specific examples from your experience.
3. Short Research Proposal
Applicants must submit a short proposal or working hypothesis.
The detailed call specifies a maximum of 500 words.
The proposal should address one of the questions provided by the organizers.
These questions concern European institutional and economic resilience against hybrid threats, or governance mechanisms that protect European foreign and security decisions.
Applicants should use the exact questions in the official call when preparing their proposals.
How to Write a Strong Research Proposal
A focused proposal can help demonstrate your analytical ability.
Start With a Clear Research Question
Identify the issue you want to examine.
Avoid choosing a topic that is too broad for the word limit.
Explain Why the Issue Matters
Describe the relevance of the problem to European security.
Use specific arguments rather than general statements.
Present a Working Hypothesis
Explain your main argument or expected finding.
Your hypothesis should be clear enough to guide further research.
Suggest a Practical Approach
Describe how you would examine the issue.
For example, you may compare policies, analyze institutions, or review relevant evidence.
Consider Policy Implications
Explain how your research could inform policy discussions.
The fellowship emphasizes practical ideas, not only theoretical analysis.
Keep the Proposal Concise
Use clear language and short paragraphs.
Avoid unnecessary background information.
Most importantly, follow the official word limit.
How to Apply for Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27
The application process is email-based.
Applicants do not need to submit their documents through a separate online application portal.
Step 1: Visit the Official Announcement
Open the official call:
Read the announcement carefully.
Step 2: Review the Full Call for Applications
Use the full application document linked from the official announcement.
Check the eligibility requirements, research questions, and document limits.
Step 3: Prepare Your CV
Write an updated CV in English.
Highlight relevant research, education, and professional experience.
Step 4: Write Your Motivation Letter
Explain your interest in European security and the fellowship theme.
Describe what you can contribute to the program.
Step 5: Prepare Your Short Proposal
Choose one of the official research questions.
Write a focused proposal that follows the word limit.
Step 6: Combine Your Documents
Merge the following into one PDF:
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Short research proposal
Check that all pages are readable.
Step 7: Send Your Application by Email
Send the PDF to:
Use a clear email subject such as:
Application – Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 – Your Full Name
This is a suggested subject line, not an officially prescribed format.
Step 8: Submit Before the Deadline
The application deadline is 11 November 2026.
Submit early to avoid technical problems.
Step 9: Monitor Your Email
The organizers may contact applicants for further information.
Successful candidates should receive instructions about the program and travel arrangements.
Application Deadline
11 November 2026
The application period is short.
The official announcement appeared on 5 November 2026.
Therefore, interested applicants should prepare their documents immediately.
The announcement does not specify a deadline time on its public summary page.
Applicants should check the full call for any additional timing instructions.
Is There an Application Fee?
The public announcement does not advertise an application fee.
Applicants submit their documents by email.
However, the organizers do not explicitly describe every possible personal expense.
Candidates should confirm travel and visa costs before accepting an offer.
Do Applicants Need a German Visa?
Visa requirements depend on nationality and residence status.
Some applicants may enter Germany without a visa for a short visit.
Others may need a Schengen visa.
Because the first in-person activities begin in December 2026, visa processing time is important.
Selected fellows should contact the organizers immediately about supporting documents and travel arrangements.
Official German visa information is available through the Federal Foreign Office:
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service
Selection for the fellowship does not guarantee visa approval.
What Makes This Fellowship Different?
Focus on European Security
The program examines important questions about democratic institutions and security policy.
Small Fellowship Group
Only eight fellows will be selected.
This creates opportunities for focused collaboration.
Academic and Professional Exchange
The program connects researchers with policy professionals.
Practical Policy Labs
Participants work together on policy questions.
They also develop ideas that may contribute to public discussions.
Hybrid Program Structure
The fellowship combines in-person sessions with online collaboration.
Munich Security Conference Context
The public side event provides an opportunity to contribute to discussions taking place around the Munich Security Conference.
However, fellows should not assume that they will receive full access to the main conference.
Who Should Consider Applying?
This fellowship may suit several groups.
Graduate Students
Graduate students researching international relations, political science, or security policy may find the program relevant.
Early-Career Researchers
Researchers can develop policy-oriented work and exchange ideas with experts.
Young Policy Professionals
People working in think tanks or public policy organizations may benefit from the practical workshops.
Legal Researchers
Applicants studying international law or European institutions may contribute relevant perspectives.
Economists
Candidates interested in economic security and international cooperation may find the program useful.
International Affairs Professionals
Professionals working on diplomacy, international cooperation, or European affairs may also have relevant experience.
Tips to Improve Your Application
Read the Official Theme Carefully
The fellowship focuses on liberal democracy and European security.
Therefore, your application should connect with this theme.
Highlight Relevant Experience
Describe research, professional work, or projects that demonstrate your interest.
Present a Clear Proposal
Choose one research question and develop a focused argument.
Avoid Generic Motivation Letters
Explain why this specific fellowship matches your interests.
Show Your Contribution
Describe the knowledge or perspective you can bring to the group.
Follow the Document Limits
Keep your CV, motivation letter, and proposal within the official requirements.
Submit One PDF
The organizers specifically request a single PDF containing the required documents.
Apply Early
The deadline is approaching quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 open?
Yes. The official call was published on 5 November 2026.
Where will the fellowship take place?
The in-person activities will take place in Munich, Germany.
How long is the fellowship?
The program runs from December 2026 to February 2027.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
The organizers offer free Winter School participation and travel and accommodation subsidies. They do not clearly guarantee full coverage of every expense.
How many fellows will be selected?
Up to eight.
What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be under 35.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes, international participation is included. However, applicants should check the regional allocation of places in the full call.
Which academic fields are eligible?
International relations, security studies, political science, economics, and law.
Can graduate students apply?
Graduate students with relevant backgrounds may be suitable candidates.
Can young professionals apply?
Yes. The fellowship specifically targets emerging researchers and young professionals.
Is IELTS required?
The public announcement does not list a mandatory IELTS or TOEFL score.
Is a CV required?
Yes.
Is a motivation letter required?
Yes.
Is a research proposal required?
Yes. Applicants must submit a short proposal or working hypothesis.
How should documents be submitted?
Combine the required documents into one PDF and send it by email.
What is the application email?
Is there an online application form?
The official announcement directs applicants to apply by email.
Will fellows attend the Munich Security Conference?
The program includes an opportunity to organize a public side event connected with the conference. This does not automatically mean full access to the main event.
Are travel expenses covered?
The organizers provide travel subsidies. Applicants should confirm the amount and conditions.
Is accommodation provided?
The organizers advertise accommodation subsidies rather than unconditional full accommodation coverage.
Is the online phase mandatory?
The program includes an online working phase in January 2027. Selected fellows should follow the organizers’ participation requirements.
What is the application deadline?
11 November 2026.
Explore More International Fellowships
Applicants interested in policy development and international leadership can also explore the CEPS Climate Leadership Programme. It offers training in European climate governance and a funded visit to Brussels.
Meanwhile, the CrossCulture Programme provides international exchange opportunities for professionals interested in cooperation, dialogue, and cultural understanding.
Young researchers and professionals can also read our FASPE Fellowship guide. This program examines professional ethics through historical learning and international discussion.
Each opportunity has different eligibility criteria, funding arrangements, and deadlines.
Therefore, applicants should review the official requirements before applying.
Final Thoughts
The Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 offers an opportunity for emerging researchers and young professionals to explore European security policy in Munich, Germany.
The program combines academic discussion, practical Policy Labs, and international networking.
Selected fellows will also attend the Bavarian Winter School on Trade and Security.
Moreover, they may help organize a public event connected with the Munich Security Conference 2027.
The organizers provide free Winter School participation and travel and accommodation subsidies.
However, applicants should confirm the exact funding amounts and any personal expenses.
The fellowship welcomes relevant researchers and professionals under 35.
Only eight fellows will be selected.
The application deadline is 11 November 2026.
Interested candidates should prepare their CV, motivation letter, and short proposal, combine them into one PDF, and submit their application by email before the deadline.
Official Sources
Young Security Conference Fellowship 2026/27 – Official Call for Applications
Young Security Conference – Official Website
https://www.youngsecurityconference.com
Young Security Conference – Fellowship Information
https://www.youngsecurityconference.com/fellowship
Amerikahaus Munich – Official Website
German Federal Foreign Office – Visa Information
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service
Disclaimer
Pathfinderly.com is an independent information website. It is not affiliated with the Young Security Conference, Amerikahaus Munich, or the fellowship’s partner organizations. Eligibility, funding, travel subsidies, accommodation arrangements, program dates, and application requirements may change. Applicants should verify all details through the official organizers before applying or making travel arrangements. Pathfinderly.com does not process applications, collect fellowship fees, or guarantee selection, financial support, or visa approval.