Leaders for Democracy Fellowship Program - MEPI
Deadline May 22, 2007
The Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) announces the “Leaders for Democracy” Fellowships Program, from March 15 through June 15, 2008, for 20-25 emerging democratic reform leaders between the ages of 25 and 40, from Lebanon and across the Middle East and North Africa. The program offers the opportunity to complete both academic coursework and a skill-building internship in the United States. The fellowship will cover all international and domestic travel, health insurance, housing, and a moderate living stipend. The program is open to applicants between the ages of 25 and 40 with a Bachelors degree and English language fluency to function successfully in an American academic and professional environment. Applicants should also have five years of work experience as well as demonstrated leadership skills, and the availability to be in the United States unaccompanied from March 15 through June 15, 2008.
Description of the Program
This program will begin with a six-week academic program at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University in upstate New York. Participants will complete relevant seminars and workshops on the key elements of democratic governance, including: the development of democratic institutions; constitutional law; political parties and campaigning; electoral laws; rule of law and legal codes; transparency/good governance; citizenship and civic education; and the relationship between democracy and other social and economic factors. Participants will receive a certificate from the accredited institution upon the successful completion of the academic preparation program. After completing the academic portion of the program, participants will engage in a four to five-month internship with a political, non-governmental, or public policy organization of professional interest. Through their internships, participants will gain practical experience and further professional contacts to draw upon within their network. Possible internship opportunities include working for a Congressional member or committee; a state legislature; a city-council; a non-governmental organization; a political activist group; a campaign; or a think tank. Internships will be based in a major American city. Applications must be submitted to the U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section by May 22, 2007 to PASBeirut@state.gov.
Visit the following link for further information http://www.mepi.state.gov/82860.htm.