Around the world, conflict is growing more complex. Multilateralism is in crisis, norms are eroding, and global systems are under pressure. New technologies and emerging threats—like disinformation, climate stress, political polarization, and social fragmentation—are reshaping how conflict emerges and unfolds, and how it must be addressed.

This changing landscape demands a new kind of leadership: grounded in context, capable of navigating uncertainty and complexity, and committed to building sustainable peace in and across divided societies.

The Yale Peace Fellowship, hosted by the International Leadership Center (ILC) at Yale University, brings together 16 rising leaders each year who are working on the frontlines of conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict reconciliation. Fellows come from a range of professional backgrounds—including civil society, diplomacy, politics, religion, and social enterprise—and are selected for their demonstrated impact and commitment to reach their full potential as peace leaders.

The program provides:

• • Structured time to reflect on the nature of modern conflict
  • Training in negotiation and leadership skills
  • Opportunities to learn from peers and international experts
  • Membership of a growing network of innovative peace leaders working across sectors and regions

The Fellowship is designed to support leaders at a critical moment in their careers—offering space to learn, connect, and prepare for the challenges ahead. It is a space for thoughtful engagement with the strategic dilemmas and dimensions of peace leadership today.

In a world where formal mechanisms for peace are often under strain, and where local innovation and leadership is increasingly vital, the Yale Peace Fellowship seeks to strengthen the capacity of those working to prevent violence and repair divided communities.

Program Components

• • A week-long in-person seminar at Yale University, held April 13-17, 2026
  • Interactive virtual sessions, held bi-weekly from January through May 2026
  • An international study trip to learn from peace efforts on the ground. Fellows will travel to the UAE from February 1-5, 2026, to participate in the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity’s annual ceremony and convening; engage with leading interfaith initiatives; and interact with a global network of peacebuilders and mediators.

Applications for the 2026 cohort of the Yale Peace Fellowship are now open through September 2, 2025. Learn how to apply