How To Apply - Leaders Europe

Location

Program participants must reside in any of the 46 Council of Europe member states (Opens in a new tab) and Kosovo to apply.

Citizenship and Residency

Program participants must be: 

• A citizen of an eligible country or territory OR 

• A permanent resident of an eligible country or territory OR 

• A refugee or asylum seeker in an eligible European nation or territory OR

• Have lived in an eligible country or territory for at least the last 5 years, regardless of citizenship or permanent residence status 

Geographic Focus

Participants’ work must be focused on creating positive change for local communities, an eligible nation, and/or the broader Europe region. 

Program Commitment

The Leaders Europe program is currently scheduled to begin the week of September 1, 2026 and will conclude no later than May 1, 2027, with planned breaks throughout.

Language Proficiency & Age

Participants must be  professionally proficient in English and be between 24 and 45 years of age during their time in the program.  

Leadership Experience

Participants must demonstrate at least 3 years of relevant experience in their issue area. 

Political Campaigns

Participants must refrain from participating in an electoral campaign as a candidate for political office from the time they are accepted into the program through its conclusion.

Jurisdiction and Ability to Participate in a U.S.-Based Program

The Obama Foundation is based in the United States. Participants must be under no legal or regulatory restrictions that would limit their participation in virtual Foundation programming or travel to the U.S. for in-person programming (if any).