Stanford's Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law runs this three-week summer programme, formerly the Draper Hills Summer Fellowship. It takes about 25–30 mid-career practitioners from countries where democracy is fragile, and starts in July 2027.

Applicants need 10–12 or more years of experience in democracy, development or rule-of-law work, must be at least 28 by July 2027, and must be from and living in an eligible country. Nigeria is eligible. Stanford covers accommodation, meals and local transport. Fellows usually pay their own airfare, and a small need-based travel fund is available.

How to apply: applications reopen in late October 2026 on Slideroom and are due on 12 January 2027. You need a CV, essays, a 2-minute video and two to three references.

Details checked against the official source on 10 Oct 2026. Always confirm dates and requirements on the official page before applying.