"...we have to join together in 21st century partnerships to build vibrant civil society, to demand accountability from democratic institutions, to insist on the rule of law, to help build independent and capable judicial systems and respect for human rights."

The Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), located within the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, assists efforts to expand political participation, strengthen civil society and the rule of law, empower women and youth, and foster economic reform throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

The MEPI Leaders for Democracy Fellowship Program is a three month program in the United States that provides young civic and democratic reform leaders from the Middle East and North Africa with the opportunity to complete academic coursework, participate in practical, skill-building experiences, and network with like-minded reformers and activists inside and outside the region.

This program begins with six weeks of academic coursework that includes topics on leadership and democracy, and communication and conflict resolution, among others, at the Maxwell School of Syracuse University in upstate New York. Fellows will complete relevant seminars and workshops that address theoretical debates as well as active skills building sessions.

After completing the academic portion of the program, participants engage in a six-week professional assignment with political, non-governmental, or public policy organization of professional interest in Washington, DC. Through this program component, participants gain a practical understanding of the interactions between government and civil society, while also gaining valuable knowledge, skills, and professional contacts to benefit their professional pursuits in their home countries.

The fellowship covers international and domestic travel, health insurance, lodging, and per diem. An alumni event is held in the region annually.

The program is open to applicants between the ages of 25 and 40 with a bachelor's degree and English language fluency to function successfully in an American academic and professional environment. Applicants also should have five years of work experience, as well as leadership skills and the capacity to apply the opportunities presented by the fellowship in a way that would benefit an organization, sector, or specific community. Fellows travel to the U.S. unaccompanied.

Interested applicants should submit an updated resume and an essay of no more than 1000 words (written in English), which answers the following questions: