Applications are open for the 2025/2026 EU Cyber Direct Fellowship , a leading international programme designed to strengthen expertise and collaboration in global cyber policy.

Running from December 2025 to June 2026, this six-month fellowship brings together professionals from across the world to explore policy-driven research and dialogue on issues shaping the future of cyberspace.

The fellowship follows a non-residential model, combining online engagement with two in-person gatherings — one in Brussels and another at a venue to be announced based on the global cyber diplomacy agenda.

About the Programme

Now in its third edition, the EU:CD Fellowship aims to nurture a global network of cyber diplomacy professionals who are advancing research, dialogue, and innovation in international cyber affairs. Fellows will work closely with EU institutions and international experts to refine their research, exchange knowledge, and test new policy ideas.

Participants are encouraged to develop both written outputs (such as policy briefs, analytical papers, or blog posts) and interactive outputs (such as webinars, workshops, or dialogue sessions) during the course of the fellowship.

Thematic Areas

The fellowship welcomes research and engagement in a range of themes, including:

• Cyber capacity building and international stability

• Responsible state behaviour and digital norms

• Cyber resilience and protection of critical infrastructure

• Governance of emerging and disruptive technologies

• Human rights and hybrid threats in cyberspace

• Multistakeholder collaboration and “Science for Cyber Diplomacy”

Key Details

• Format: Hybrid (online + two in-person sessions)

About EU Cyber Direct

The EU Cyber Diplomacy Initiative – EU Cyber Direct is an EU-funded programme that promotes international cooperation and policy development in cyberspace. It focuses on advancing responsible state behaviour, protecting human rights online, and fostering global cyber stability through research, dialogue, and capacity building.