International Human Rights Certificate for Young Leaders
Building Global Leaders to Defend Human Rights and Freedom in the Most Challenging Places
In a world where human rights and freedom are increasingly challenged, a new generation of informed and courageous leaders is urgently needed.
The World Anti Extremism Network (WAEN) proudly presents four editions of the International Human Rights Certificate for Young Leaders, a global online training initiative designed to equip emerging changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to stand up for human rights, freedom, and democratic values, especially in complex and high-risk environments.
This program brings together leading human rights practitioners, scholars, and activists to share real-world insights and practical tools through meaningful sessions. Participants will also be guided to critically analyze human rights conditions in their own countries.
Program Overview
This initiative will run across four intensive editions, engaging and training 500 young leaders worldwide through a structured, one-month learning experience per edition.
Each edition includes:
- Interactive live webinars with global human rights experts
- Practical e-workshops and skill-building sessions
- Guided essay writing and publication opportunities
- Exposure to real-world case studies on rights, freedom, and civic resilience
Each participant is required to dedicate 2 hours per session, four times a month, ensuring consistent engagement throughout the program. Participants will also be required to write an article on human rights and freedom issues in their countries or around the world, which will be published under their names.
2026 Editions & Application Timeline
Participants may apply to one edition based on their availability
Current Edition
June 2026
Runs from 1st June – 30th June – Deadline to apply: 20th May, 12:00 PM ET
Upcoming Editions
August 2026
Runs from 1st August – 30th August – Deadline to apply: 20th July, 12:00 PM ET
November 2026
Runs from 1st November – 30th November – Deadline to apply: 20th October, 12:00 PM ET
January 2027
Runs from 10th January – 10th February – Deadline to apply: 28th December, 12:00 PM ET
Completed
June 2024
June 03 – 28, 2024
August 2024
August 01 – 30, 2024
October 2024
October 01 – 30, 2024
December 2024
December 01 – 31, 2024
February 2025
January 01 – 31, 2025
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is open to:
- University students and recent graduates
- Human rights defenders and civil society activists
- Journalists and media professionals
- Early and mid-career professionals from public and private sectors
- Emerging leaders working under challenging political or social environments
The program is especially designed for those who are working for human rights and freedom under the difficult environments of autocracies and authoritarian regimes, where defending freedom requires both courage and knowledge.
Program Impact
Through this training, participants, particularly from MENA, South Asia, and other regions facing democratic challenges will:
- Strengthen their understanding of human rights frameworks
- Develop practical strategies to counter authoritarian and extremist narratives
- Build capacity to promote freedom, justice, and civic engagement in their communities and to establish their own initiatives for defending human rights and freedom
- Join a growing global network of young changemakers committed to positive transformation
Language & Selection
The program is conducted entirely in English, and strong proficiency is required.
Due to high demand, selection is highly competitive. Applications are reviewed by an expert panel consisting of human rights practitioners, scholars, and WAEN leadership.
A limited number of scholarships will be available for outstanding candidates, allowing full participation free of charge.
Testimonials
What Our Alumni Have to Say