2026 UNIDIR Women in AI Fellowship

Job Description

Connect With Us

Applications are now open for the 2026 UNIDIR Women in AI Fellowship, a specialized program designed to equip women diplomats with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to engage effectively in international discussions on artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for peace and security.

This fellowship provides participants with a deep understanding of AI technology, policy, legal, and ethical dimensions, and prepares women leaders to contribute meaningfully to multilateral AI discussions.

Fellowship Overview

• Program Type: Capacity-building Fellowship
• Duration: One-week, in-person training
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland
• Application Deadline: 24 February 2026

Fellowship Structure

The Women in AI Fellowship is built around three pillars to ensure a comprehensive learning experience:

1. Education

• Substantive introduction to AI technology, its strengths and limitations
• Overview of AI use cases in security applications
• Insights into international AI policy and governance discussions
• Understanding of the links between military AI, law, ethics, and gender considerations
• Lectures delivered by UNIDIR researchers and experts from stakeholder organizations

2. Exploration

• Targeted interactions with stakeholders involved in technical, academic, and policy applications of AI
• Briefings on AI ecosystems, including design, deployment, and governance

3. Networking

• Opportunities to build connections with the diplomatic community, civil society, and the private sector
• Reception with Geneva-based diplomatic representatives
• Virtual meetings with multi-sectoral experts in gender, security, and technology
• Access to the UNIDIR Alumni Network and UNIDIR Expert Network on the Governance of Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to women diplomats and government representatives who:

• Are junior to mid-career professionals
• Represent UN Member States
• Have strong command of written and spoken English
• Have an interest in security, technology, and/or gender issues

Selection Priorities

• Applicants from developing countries will be prioritized for travel and accommodation support
• Only one fellow per Member State or diplomatic delegation will be selected to ensure regional diversity

Application Requirements

Nominations must be submitted by UN Member States or Delegations of international/regional organizations. Applicants should submit the following via email to [email protected] with the subject line:
“2026 UNIDIR Women in AI Fellowship Application”

• Copy of passport
• Curriculum vitae (max 2 pages)
• Two recommendation letters, including one from the applicant’s national government or diplomatic representation to the UN
• One-page letter of interest outlining experience, motivation, and how knowledge gained will be applied

Note: Ensure the applicant’s email address is included in the CC field of the email.

Key Dates

• 24 February 2026: Application deadline (midnight CET)
• Mid-March 2026: Announcement of selected fellows
• 8–12 June 2026: In-person fellowship training in Geneva

The UNIDIR Women in AI Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity for women diplomats to gain cutting-edge knowledge of AI, build global networks, and strengthen their ability to influence international AI policy and security discussions.