Deadline: January 15, 2023.

The McCain Global Leaders Program supports character-driven leaders from around the world who embody Senator John McCain’s legacy of serving a cause greater than oneself.  Structured as a 10-month fellowship and experiential learning experience, each cohort will include 25 diverse leaders from around the world who are working “in the arena” to advance democracy, human rights and freedom. The program is designed to advance each Leader’s personal and professional leadership journey and impact by providing training, resources, and access to highly relevant regional and global networks with goal of preparing today’s leaders to meet tomorrow’s challenges.

In response to the growing threat that democracy, human rights, and freedom are under around the world, the 2023 McCain Global Leaders Cohort will focus on defending democracy. There are few greater challenges to the global community than the threats posed to democracy through the rise of authoritarianism, disinformation, polarization, violent extremism, and conflict. Throughout 2023, Leaders will explore the primary challenges to democracy, as well as analyze and learn about solutions related to ensuring the future stability of democracy around the world.

Following in the footsteps of Senator John McCain’s legacy of being on the front lines of defending and advocating for democracy, freedom and human rights, Leaders will embark on a journey that will help provide them the tools needed to be champions of democracy in their home country and region.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

1. Though there is no age requirement, Leaders are typically between the ages of 25 and 40. 
2. Leaders should possess a strong track record of serving a cause greater than oneself as well as experience working directly on the global theme of defending democracy. 
3. The McCain Institute emphasizes diversity in the form of gender, ethnicity, persons with disabilities, political viewpoint, economic background and education.
4. Applicants should be committed to serving a cause greater than oneself and should be invested in full participation in virtual engagements, in-person programs and post program alumni activities.
5. There is no minimum educational requirement.

BENEFITS

Participants will not receive a stipend, but the direct costs of their participation in the program (economy class travel, hotels, visas, and meals and incidentals) will be fully covered by the McCain Institute.  There will be no cost of participation other than the time commitment that MGLs make to participate in programming.

OFFICIAL LINK