HCoC Youth Group Fellowship 2026-2027: Apply Now
Are you a young professional passionate about global security and arms control? The HCoC Youth Group Fellowship 2026-2027 offers a fully funded chance to dive into missile non-proliferation studies. This program connects you with experts and builds real skills in a key area of international policy.
What Is the HCoC Youth Group Fellowship?
The HCoC Youth Group Fellowship 2026-2027 is run by the Fondation pour la Recherche Stratégique (FRS) with European Union support. It targets young professionals, graduate students, and early-career researchers. The focus is on ballistic missile proliferation in a world with fast-changing tech and geopolitics.
This 18-month program is the second edition. It supports the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation (HCoC). Fellows join a group of 15 from around the world for virtual and in-person activities.
Program Structure and Key Activities
The fellowship mixes online learning, expert talks, and hands-on work. It keeps things flexible but engaging.
Expert Webinars
Four webinars happen at set times: November 2026, February 2027, April 2027, and June 2027. Each one features talks from researchers, diplomats, and experts. Fellows ask questions ahead and join moderated discussions. These cover deep topics in missile non-proliferation.
Virtual Cafés
These are optional chats throughout the program. They help fellows connect, talk about news, and share research ideas. The goal is to build teamwork in a relaxed way.
In-Person Workshop in Lithuania
The big event is a three-day workshop in September 2027 in Plokštinė, Lithuania. It includes expert talks, research shares, simulation games like negotiations, and a tour of a Cold War missile base. The program pays for all travel and stays.
Individual Research Project
Every fellow writes their own research paper. They pick a topic tied to the program’s themes. The papers go into a group publication edited by FRS. This boosts your resume with real policy work.
Main Themes of the Program
The fellowship splits into two pillars to cover tech and policy sides.
Pillar 1: Technical Dimension
This looks at new missile trends, dual-use tech like space systems, and how civilian tools mix with military ones. It also checks arms control challenges.
Pillar 2: Diplomatic Dimension
Here, fellows study the HCoC’s role, global teamwork, multipolar world issues, and ways to improve non-proliferation.
You choose your focus when applying.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Rules
The program welcomes diverse applicants under 40 years old.
Target groups include young professionals, Master’s students or higher, and early researchers. You need strong English skills and time for all events. Interests should match areas like missile tech, arms control, WMD non-proliferation, space policy, international law, diplomacy, or regional security.
How Selection Works
Judges look at your application’s strength, background fit, and diversity factors like location, gender, and fields. They aim for a balanced global group.
Time Needed
Plan for 4-6 hours a month, plus extra for research and the workshop. It’s designed to fit busy schedules.
Benefits of Joining
This fellowship gives free access, funded travel for the workshop, expert networks, a published paper, and skills in security policy. It’s great for careers in diplomacy, defense, or international relations.
How to Apply
Fill out the online form with your CV (max 2 pages). Answer questions on your motivation, missile challenges, group contributions, theme choice, and an expert question. Everything in English.
Deadline is July 31, 2026. Hear back in four weeks. Apply here. See the full call here.
Contact for Questions
Email [email protected]. More details at the HCoC Youth Group page.
Fellows must stay active, as outputs get published under their names. Non-participation can mean removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HCoC Youth Group Fellowship 2026-2027?
It is an 18-month program run by the Fondation pour la Recherche Stratégique with EU support. It helps young professionals study ballistic missile non-proliferation through webinars, workshops, and research.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be under 40, including young professionals, graduate students, or early-career researchers. You need strong English skills and interest in missile tech, arms control, or related fields.
What activities does the program include?
Activities feature four expert webinars, optional virtual cafés, a three-day in-person workshop in Lithuania, and an individual research project for publication.
How and when do I apply?
Submit an online form with your CV and answers to motivation questions by July 31, 2026. You will hear back in four weeks.