Are you a full-time journalist seeking an international opportunity to deepen your reporting on emerging global issues? The Jefferson Fellowships 2026 offers a prestigious three-week reporting and study tour focused on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence across the Asia-Pacific region.
Jefferson Fellowships 2026
The Jefferson Fellowships 2026 is organized by the East-West Center to leverage news media in enhancing public understanding of cultures, trends, and critical issues in the Indo-Pacific. This year’s program will take selected journalists to Honolulu, Tokyo, and Seoul, where they will engage with experts, policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders examining artificial intelligence and its implications for society and economic security.
The theme for 2026 is “New Frontiers in Artificial Intelligence: Navigating AI’s Impacts on Societies and Economic Security in the Asia-Pacific Region.” Participants will explore both the opportunities and risks associated with AI, from economic growth and innovation to job displacement, ethical concerns, and social transformation.
This fellowship provides substantial financial support, making it an exceptional opportunity for journalists to strengthen their global reporting skills, build international networks, and produce impactful stories on one of the most significant technological shifts of our time.
Jefferson Fellowships 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Organization | East-West Center |
| Program Type | Reporting & Study Tour for Journalists |
| Theme | AI’s Impact on Societies and Economic Security |
| Program Dates | October 25 – November 12, 2026 |
| Duration | Three Weeks |
| Destinations | Honolulu (USA), Tokyo (Japan), Seoul (South Korea) |
| Eligible Applicants | Full-Time Journalists in the Indo-Pacific Region (including the United States) |
| Funding | Full or Partial Scholarships Available |
| Application Deadline | March 10, 2026 |
| Opening Date | February 2, 2026 |
| Program Fee | USD $900 (not covered by scholarship) |
What Is the Jefferson Fellowships Program All About?
The Jefferson Fellowships is a flagship journalism exchange program designed to strengthen cross-cultural understanding and professional collaboration across the Indo-Pacific region. It provides journalists with firsthand exposure to pressing issues shaping the region through site visits, interviews, and research.
The 2026 program will focus on artificial intelligence as a transformative force influencing economic security, governance, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and disaster preparedness. AI is expected to contribute significantly to economic growth across Asia, yet it also raises concerns about inequality, workforce disruption, privacy, and ethical governance.
Participants will visit technology hubs, healthcare facilities, AI research labs, educational institutions, and manufacturing sites to observe real-world applications of AI. Fellows will also exchange perspectives with fellow journalists, enhancing regional cooperation in reporting.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Jefferson Fellowships 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a full-time journalist working in the Indo-Pacific region (including the United States).
- Must have at least five years of professional journalism experience.
- Must possess professional fluency in English.
- Must demonstrate how the fellowship theme relates to their coverage area.
- Must commit to producing journalistic content during and after the program.
Preference will be given to applicants who clearly outline how participation will enhance public understanding through their reporting.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be citizens of countries within the Indo-Pacific region, including:
Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, East Timor, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Zealand, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Tuvalu, United States, Vanuatu, and Vietnam.
Scholarship Benefits
The Jefferson Fellowships 2026 provides full or partial scholarships covering most program expenses, including:
- Round-trip international and domestic airfare
- Accommodation in each destination city
- Program meals and modest per diem
- Ground transportation and airport transfers
- Cultural activities and networking opportunities
- Interpretation services as needed
- Access to high-level speakers and institutions
- Professionally organized meetings and site visits
However, fellows are required to pay a USD $900 program fee and cover visa expenses, health insurance, baggage fees, and other personal costs.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Completed online application form
- Letter of interest (maximum three pages)
- Résumé or Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages)
- Employer’s statement of support (not required for freelancers)
- Two professional references with recommendation letters
The letter of interest should explain the applicant’s experience, expected outcomes from the fellowship, relevance of the theme to their audience, and proposed reporting topics.
Participant Obligations
Selected fellows are expected to actively contribute to the program through professional exchange and reporting activities. Requirements include:
- Preparing a short paper (1,000-1,500 words) addressing the theme before arrival.
- Delivering a 10-15-minute presentation based on the submitted paper.
- Participating in discussions and collaborative learning activities.
- Producing journalistic content based on insights gained during the fellowship.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here’s how to apply for the Jefferson Fellowships 2026:
Check Eligibility
Ensure you meet all requirements, including professional experience and full-time journalism status.
Prepare Your Documents
Gather your CV, letter of interest, references, and employer support statement.
Complete the Online Application
Visit the official East-West Center application portal and fill out the form carefully.
Submit Before the Deadline
Applications must be submitted by March 10, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Await Selection Results
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation and final selection.
Why Apply for the Jefferson Fellowships 2026?
- Gain exclusive access to AI experts and policymakers.
- Strengthen international reporting skills.
- Build professional networks across the Indo-Pacific.
- Produce high-impact stories on emerging technologies.
- Enhance your career as a global journalist.
By participating in this program, journalists will be better equipped to report on one of the most transformative developments shaping societies and economies worldwide.
Official Link: https://www.eastwestcenter.org/apply/2026-jefferson-fellowships
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are the Jefferson Fellowships 2026 fully funded?
Full and partial scholarships are available covering major program expenses, though participants must pay a program fee and some personal costs.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Full-time journalists from Indo-Pacific countries, including the United States, with at least five years of experience.
What is the theme of the 2026 program?
Artificial intelligence and its impact on societies and economic security in the Asia-Pacific region.
What will participants be expected to produce?
Fellows must produce journalistic content, including reports, stories, blogs, or social media coverage related to the program theme.
When does the program take place?
October 25 to November 12, 2026.
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