The Safe Haven Fellowship aims to protect and support academics, artists, writers, and journalists whose work has been hindered or endangered due to war, conflict, or suppression by state or non-state actors. This fellowship offers temporary relocation to NIAS in Amsterdam for a period of five months, allowing fellows to continue their academic or creative projects in safety and freedom.
Safe Haven Fellowship Details
- Funding Institutions: University of Amsterdam (UvA) and Maastricht University (UM).
- Fellowship Duration: 5 months (September–January or February–June).
- Fellowship Location: NIAS Amsterdam.
- Funding Type: Fully Funded.
- Application Deadline: December 31, 2025, 11:59 PM.
Who Can Apply?
- Researchers and Academics: At least three years of research experience post-PhD if submitting a scientific project.
- Artists, Writers, Journalists: A PhD is not required if the proposal is artistic or journalistic in nature.
- Project proposals must fall within the humanities or social sciences.
- A good command of English is necessary for effective participation in the NIAS community.
- Applicants must be at risk or unable to continue their work due to war or conflict.
- Applicants affiliated with institutions boycotted by the Dutch government are not eligible.
Benefits
- €3,500 monthly stipend throughout the fellowship.
- Fully equipped office space at NIAS with access to academic resources.
- Subsidized accommodation or commuting allowance within Amsterdam.
- Full travel reimbursement for one round-trip journey.
- Networking and interdisciplinary collaboration with international researchers, artists, and journalists.
- Participation in NIAS community events, skill workshops, and shared lunches.
Evaluation Criteria
- Clarity of the project theme and research/creative question.
- Academic, societal, or cultural relevance of the project.
- Sound methodology and problem identification.
- Realistic and feasible timeline.
- Expected project outcomes.
- Value of NIAS environment for the project and fellow.
- Fellow’s potential contribution to NIAS and its community.
Important Notes
- This is a temporary fellowship and does not offer long-term residence in the Netherlands.
- Visa arrangements are solely the responsibility of the fellow. NIAS only provides an official invitation letter.
How to Apply
- Online Application Form: Submit a completed form through the NIAS online platform.
- Project Proposal (max. 1,000 words):
- Clear research or creative question.
- Justification of academic, societal, cultural, or artistic relevance.
- Clear methodology and realistic timeline.
- Motivation Statement (max. 150 words):
- Why NIAS?
- Why you were forced to stop or leave your work (if applicable)?
- Ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline mentioned on the website.
