The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) invites aspiring young talents from across the globe to apply for the Future Leaders Program 2025 — a prestigious three-month intensive training in foreign policy, leadership, public speaking, and media.

Hosted in Budapest, Hungary from September 15 to December 15, 2025, this fully funded program offers participants a unique platform to gain in-depth knowledge, sharpen essential skills, and engage with global experts, shaping the next generation of influential leaders.

The HIIA Future Leaders Program presents an exceptional platform for recent graduates and early-career professionals passionate about foreign policy to gain hands-on experience within the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA). Participants will deepen their insight into priority areas of Hungary’s foreign policy while actively contributing to the institute’s ongoing work.

Over the course of the program, fellows will carry out research under the mentorship of experienced professionals and assist both the research and project management teams. Depending on their individual regional or thematic interests, they will help analyze issues that hold strategic relevance for HIIA. Alongside their research responsibilities, participants will benefit from a rich professional development curriculum, including seminars on foreign policy, leadership, public speaking, and media. They will also have opportunities to engage in public dialogues and build connections with prominent figures in Hungarian diplomacy.

Focus Areas of Research

• Regional: Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Visegrád cooperation, Transatlantic relations, Middle East, Turkic States, Asia-Pacific.

• Thematic: Security policy, Energy policy, Multipolarity, Global geopolitical dynamics, Connectivity, Family policy in an international framework, Cultural diplomacy.

Important Notes:

• Candidates should review visa requirements before applying, as securing the appropriate visa is the responsibility of the participant. HIIA will provide guidance and support during the visa application process.

• Accommodation arrangements are to be made by the fellows themselves.

Contract Details:
Selected participants in the Future Leaders Program will receive a three-month fixed-term contract from HIIA. Payments will be made upon meeting specific milestones, such as attending training and professional development sessions, submitting research reports, and completing an independent research project.