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The Global Majority AI Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded international programme that enables civil society experts from Global South countries to participate in the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva.
It provides support for travel, accommodation, and official conference access, helping selected professionals working in AI governance, digital rights, data justice, and public policy to contribute to global discussions on artificial intelligence rules and regulations.
The fellowship is organized by the Heinrich Böll Foundation and aims to improve participation from underrepresented regions in shaping global AI policy frameworks.
WhatsApp ChannelWhat the Global Majority AI Fellowship is about
The programme focuses on increasing representation from countries that are often underrepresented in global technology decision-making. It supports participation in discussions under the UN-led Global Dialogue on AI Governance, a multilateral forum created to coordinate international approaches to AI regulation and cooperation.
The first session in Geneva will take place alongside major tech policy meetings, including the ITU Summit and the WSIS Forum, making it one of the key global policy events of 2026.
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Key themes of the UN AI Dialogue
The fellowship aligns with four main policy clusters being discussed at the UN forum:
- Social, economic, ethical, and cultural impacts of AI
- Bridging digital and AI access gaps between countries
- Safety, security, and trust in AI systems
- Human rights, transparency, and accountability in AI governance
These themes reflect broader concerns around inequality in AI development and the need for shared global rules.
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Benefits of Global Majority AI Fellowship 2026
Selected fellows receive full logistical support to attend the Geneva session, including:
- International travel coverage
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation (up to three nights)
- Conference registration and accreditation
The programme also includes visibility support through the foundation’s communication channels and access to international policy networks focused on AI governance.
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Who can apply
The fellowship targets applicants based in countries receiving Official Development Assistance (ODA). It is open to professionals and emerging leaders working in:
- AI governance and digital policy
- Data and digital rights
- Climate and environmental justice
- Human rights and social accountability
- Technology research or advocacy
Applicants may come from civil society groups, research institutions, universities, or policy organizations.
Application requirements
Applicants must submit two main documents:
- A CV (maximum 2 pages, no personal photos or marital details)
- A motivational statement (up to 300 words)
The statement should explain:
- The main challenge in AI governance today
- Practical ideas to address it
- Current work or experience in the field
- How participation in Geneva would support their work
Applicants must also apply separately to the UN participation support process for the Global Dialogue.
Deadlines and selection
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but selection depends on available funding and demand. Early application is recommended due to limited seats.
The UN registration deadline for participation support is 24 May 2026, while general registration for the Geneva event closes on 25 June 2026.
Why this fellowship matters
The programme reflects a wider push within the UN system to make AI governance more inclusive. A key goal is to ensure that countries from the Global South have a stronger role in shaping rules around artificial intelligence, rather than being limited to technology developed elsewhere.
The Geneva dialogue is expected to influence future global coordination efforts, with a second session planned in New York in 2027.
For early-career professionals and policy practitioners working in digital rights or technology governance, the fellowship offers direct access to international decision-making spaces at a time when global AI rules are still being formed.
