The Aspen–GMF Bucharest Forum Fellowship Program is an initiative of the Aspen Institute Romania aimed at empowering a new generation of emerging leaders committed to transatlantic cooperation, democratic resilience, and strategic thinking in a time of profound geopolitical shifts.

The Fellowship Program will offer selected participants full access to all of the 14th edition of the Aspen–GMF Bucharest Forum sessions, policy discussions, and exclusive networking opportunities with senior decision-makers, international experts, and leading voices from government, business, civil society, and media.

The Fellowship is designed to provide meaningful exposure to the critical themes of the Forum, from regional security and geopolitical realignment to the ethical governance of technology, economic and energy security, and societal resilience. By participating, Fellows will gain first-hand insight into today’s strategic challenges and join a broader community of leaders engaged in shaping informed, values-based responses.

Why apply?

Selected Fellows will:

  • Participate in all sessions of the Aspen–GMF Bucharest Forum (October 22–24, 2025);
  • Join side-events and networking gatherings with policymakers, experts, and industry leaders;
  • Be part of a dynamic network of young professionals contributing to strategic reflection at national and regional levels;
  • The best submissions will be offered the opportunity to present their papers on stage.

Who can apply?

Ideal candidates are emerging leaders who demonstrate a strong commitment to democratic values, transatlantic cooperation, and who are eager to contribute to shaping valuable responses to today’s geopolitical, technological, and societal challenges.

We are looking for emerging leaders aged 25 to 45 from Romania and the region, working in:

  • Public institutions and international organizations;
  • Civil society and think tanks;
  • Media and strategic communications;
  • Business and technology sectors;
  • Academia and research.

Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in one or more of the following:

  • Transatlantic cooperation;
  • Regional and European security;
  • Resilience in the face of technological, economic or hybrid threats;
  • Democratic governance and civic engagement;
  • Strategic foresight and policy innovation.

How to apply?

Candidates are invited to submit an original policy paper (between 3,000 to 4,000 words) on one of the topics below:

  • Romania – Poland: Strategic partnership on NATO’s Eastern Flank
  • Critical raw materials: Securing supply chains
  • Moldova: Between security and stability
  • South Caucasus: Russia, Iran, China – and the EU?
  • Black Sea: Maritime security in contested waters

Interested applicants are invited to apply via this link by October 10, 2025. 

Participants will be selected based on their capacity to express original points of views, contributing meaningfully to academic strategic dialogue among peers.