The Anthony Lester Fellowships have officially opened the application window for the 2026–2027 cycle, inviting legal minds to lead impactful projects worldwide on human rights.
This initiative seeks to empower individuals early in their careers to effect practical change in human rights and the rule of law.
The program honors the memory of Anthony Lester QC, one of Britain’s most distinguished human rights barristers.
Inspired by his early fieldwork during the American civil rights movement, the fellowship encourages a new generation to use the law as a tool for social and political change.
Unlike traditional academic grants, this opportunity focuses exclusively on practical fieldwork rather than theoretical research. Candidates are expected to design manageable and realistic projects that can make a tangible impact in their chosen field.
Funding and benefits
Two fellowships are awarded each academic year, providing a substantial stipend of $25,000 to cover project costs and living expenses. This funding is designed to support a full-time commitment to fieldwork for a minimum of three months.
Beyond the financial support, fellows are invited to Bard’s campus in New York’s Hudson Valley at the end of their term to present their findings.
The program covers all travel and accommodation costs for this presentation, allowing fellows to share their work with a global network.
Fellows also have the unique opportunity to discuss their projects with experts from the Odysseus Trust. This professional exposure is intended to significantly influence the fellow’s future career trajectory in international human rights law.
Application requirement
The fellowship is open to law students and early-career lawyers from any geographical location who wish to work outside their country of residence.
This cross-border requirement ensures that the project provides a new and diverse experience for the applicant.
Selection is based on the project’s potential for impact and its alignment with the promotion of the rule of law.
Projects must be practical in nature and take place in a country different from the applicant’s own to foster international perspective.
Diversity in both geography and subject matter is highly valued by the selection committee. Applicants should demonstrate how their project will help those who might not otherwise have access to such high-level advocacy or support.
Deadline
Interested candidates must prepare their proposals and submit them before the closing date of February 13, 2026. Applications should be submitted through the official portal to be considered for the 2026–2027 academic year. Click HERE to begin the process. Explore our global opportunities page for more.
Summary not available at this time.
