Updated: 6 May 2026
1. General Provisions
1.1 Legal Status
The Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom gGmbH (hereinafter referred to as “the Foundation”) is a tax-exempt public-benefit organization established under German law.
In accordance with Section 52(2)(1)(10) of the German Fiscal Code (Abgabenordnung), the Foundation pursues charitable purposes, including support for individuals persecuted on political, racial, or religious grounds, as well as refugees and displaced persons.
1.2 Purpose of Fellowships
In line with its Articles of Association, the Foundation provides fellowships to individuals who:
- Are persecuted due to their political beliefs or civic engagement;
- Contribute to democratic development, human rights protection, independent journalism, or civil society;
- Have been compelled to leave their home country or relocated voluntarily under conditions linked to political or social constraints;
- Are students from Russia, Ukraine, or Belarus enrolled at foreign universities, including students in the Master’s Degree Program in Russian Studies named after Boris Nemtsov at Charles University.
1.3 Duration and Scope
- The standard fellowship duration is up to 12 months.
- Fellowships may be extended once for an additional period of up to 12 months, subject to performance and funding availability.
- The number of fellowships awarded, funding levels, and program formats depend on available resources and program-specific priorities.
1.4 Eligibility Restrictions
The Foundation maintains a strict commitment to democratic values and human rights.
Applicants are not eligible if they:
- Promote or endorse xenophobia, discrimination, or hate speech;
- Support, justify, or engage in violence or armed aggression;
- Deny historical atrocities such as the Holocaust;
- Disseminate propaganda or pursue narrowly partisan political agendas incompatible with the Foundation’s mission.
2. Applicants and Application Requirements
2.1 Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Belong to one of the program’s target groups (e.g., researchers, journalists, human rights defenders, students, refugees, innovators);
- Demonstrate a clear connection between their work or studies and the Foundation’s mission;
- Reside legally in the European Union, a non-EU country, or the United States.
2.2 Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following materials:
- Proof of legal status
Documentation confirming the applicant’s legal residence status. - Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A detailed biography outlining professional, academic, and civic activities, particularly in the country of origin. - Letters of recommendation (2)
Provided by recognized NGOs, established human rights defenders, members of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, or comparable reputable figures. - Concept note (max. 1 page)
A concise description of the proposed project, research, or academic activity to be undertaken during the fellowship. The project or study plan must align with the Foundation’s statutory goals. - Project or study timeline (max. 1 page)
A structured plan outlining key milestones and expected outcomes. - Statement of current situation
Information on family status, employment (if applicable), and current sources of income and financial needs.
Specific requirements may vary depending on the fellowship track or program.
3. Application Process
3.1 Calls for Applications
The Foundation publishes open calls on its official website and may also invite selected candidates to apply directly.
3.2 Review and Selection
Applications are reviewed upon submission of all required documents. A decision is typically made within one month. If necessary, the review period may be extended by an additional month to allow for due diligence.
The Foundation reserves the right to request additional documentation or clarification regarding the applicant’s background, current circumstances, and proposed project or study plan.
3.3 Decision-Making
Final decisions are made by the Foundation’s management. In exceptional cases, the Board of Trustees may be consulted. Decisions are communicated to applicants in written form.
4. Financial and Legal Conditions
4.1 Tax Responsibility
Fellows are solely responsible for complying with tax obligations in their country of residence.
The Foundation does not act as a tax agent and does not withhold or remit taxes on behalf of fellows.
5. Fellowship Obligations and Termination
5.1 Fellow Responsibilities
Fellows are required to:
- Fulfill the objectives and deliverables outlined in their approved project or study plan;
- Meet the fellowship’s obligations as specified in the fellowship agreement;
- Maintain conduct consistent with the Foundation’s values.
5.2 Termination
The Foundation reserves the right to terminate the fellowship agreement at any time prior to its expiration if the fellow:
- Fails to meet the fellowship’s obligations;
- Provides false or misleading information;
- Engages in conduct that violates the Foundation’s principles.
6. Final Provisions
These guidelines provide a general framework for the Fellowship Program.
Additional terms, conditions, and requirements may apply to specific fellowship tracks and will be communicated in relevant calls for applications or agreements.