Communications Fellowship 2026: Apply Now
The Communications Fellowship 2026 offers young African professionals a chance to work on human rights and transitional justice projects. Hosted by the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) under the Initiative for Transitional Justice in Africa (ITJA), this program builds skills in storytelling and advocacy. It targets those eager to support justice and peace efforts across the continent.
About the Initiative for Transitional Justice in Africa (ITJA)
ITJA is a three-year project started by the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU). The goal is to help AU member states apply the African Union Transitional Justice Policy at the national level. A team of organizations runs the project, including ICTJ as the lead, the African Transitional Justice Legacy Fund (ATJLF), and the Center for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR). These groups focus on justice, accountability, and lasting peace in Africa.
About the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ)
ICTJ is a global nonprofit that deals with major human rights abuses. It works to hold people accountable, support victims, build strong democracies, and stop future violence. The Communications Fellowship 2026 helps ICTJ share its work through better outreach and stories that reach wide audiences.
Fellowship Overview
This fellowship boosts ITJA’s public presence and trains the fellow in strategic communications. The fellow will team up with ITJA leaders, ICTJ’s communications staff, and program teams from partner groups. Tasks center on making and sharing content that shows the project’s results and draws in people from Africa and beyond.
Duration and Format
The Communications Fellowship 2026 lasts six months and starts right after selection. It mixes virtual and in-person work based on the needs of events and tasks. This setup gives fellows a steady role in active projects.
Main Responsibilities
Fellows handle key communication duties to promote ITJA’s goals.
Content Creation and Social Media
Fellows write posts for LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and X. They follow rules set by donors to keep messages clear and on track.
Event Support
They make invitations and promo materials for events. During events, fellows post updates, take photos, and share stories. After events, they write press releases and summaries.
Tracking Results
Fellows check social media stats to see what works best and improve future posts.
Adapting Content
They turn long reports and policy briefs into easy-to-read formats for more people.
Visuals and Graphics
Fellows design infographics and images that highlight project successes.
Editing Help
They review and format publications, plus write articles for the website about programs.
Fellows also help the team with other tasks as they come up.
Stipend and Support
The fellowship pays a monthly stipend for all six months. This covers living costs while fellows gain real-world experience.
Who Can Apply
Candidates need a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, international relations, or a similar field. A master’s degree works too. Strong writing and editing skills are a must, along with experience in development, governance, or human rights communications. Knowledge of tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite helps. Interest in transitional justice and human rights is key, and English skills are required. French, Portuguese, or Arabic are bonuses.
How to Apply
Fill out the online form and send a CV, a one-page cover letter, and one or two writing samples. Applications go through on a rolling basis, so only shortlisted people hear back. Interviews happen online or in person.
Deadline
No set end date exists. Apply soon, as they pick candidates as they review submissions.
Reasons to Join
This role lets you mix communications with human rights work on big African projects. Build your skills, portfolio, and contacts with top groups. For those who love advocacy and justice stories, the Communications Fellowship 2026 is a strong step forward in your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Communications Fellowship 2026?
It is a six-month program by ICTJ and ITJA that trains young African professionals in storytelling and advocacy for human rights and transitional justice projects.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
You need a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or a related field, strong writing skills, and interest in human rights. Experience in the field and tools like Canva help.
How do you apply?
Submit an online form with your CV, a one-page cover letter, and one or two writing samples. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with no fixed deadline.
What does the fellowship offer?
It provides a monthly stipend, hands-on work in content creation, social media, events, and more, plus skill-building and networking in transitional justice.