Training

Throughout the program, the laureates complete several training modules related to the defense of human rights. Some of these training sessions are group sessions, open to the entire cohort, while others are small-group sessions, bringing together fellows based on their areas of focus and career goals. Recent cohorts have notably taken the following modules:

  • Addressing Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based and Sexual Violence in the Workplace (10 hours)
  • Legal Track (21 hours)
  • Advocacy (21 hours)
  • Negotiation and Leadership (35 hours)
  • Methodology for Investigating Fundamental Rights Violations (14 hours)
  • Physical Safety (21 hours)
  • French as a Foreign Language (40 hours)
  • Supporting Victims of Gender-Based and Sexual Violence (7 hours)
  • Project Management (4 x 7 hours)
  • Digital Security (7 hours)

Meetings

To increase the reach and visibility of the awardees’ work and to expand their networks, meetings are organized with numerous organizations, civil society actors, elected officials, and government agencies. Each year, a variety of stakeholders are brought together to engage with human rights defenders. In 2026, the awardees had the honor of meeting, among others:

  • The Delegation for Women’s Rights and Gender Equality
  • The French Development Agency (AFD)
  • The International Prison Observatory (OIP)
  • The International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF)
  • The Directorate for Judicial Protection of Youth at the Ministry of Justice
  • The General Inspectorate of Places of Deprivation of Liberty (CGLPL)

Events and Trips

The 18-week training program features several highlights: official events attended by the fellows, as well as trips organized as part of the program.

In addition to the program’s opening and closing ceremonies, human rights defenders are invited to a variety of events related to their areas of advocacy. The Class of 2026, in particular, was invited to events held at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to mark International Women’s Day and the International Day Against LGBT+ Phobia.

Furthermore, on the sidelines of the 9th International Congress Against the Death Penalty, the fellows met with the President of the Republic and participated in roundtable discussions and award ceremonies.

Finally, the awardees have the opportunity to take advantage of their visit to Europe to travel to Brussels to visit the European institutions, as well as to Geneva to meet with various representatives of UN agencies and hold discussions with international organizations working to promote human rights.

Personalized Support

Depending on their level of commitment and, where applicable, their career plans, each recipient receives personalized support, consisting of meetings and activities tailored to their individual path. For example, in recent cohorts, awardees have had the opportunity to participate in and contribute to a podcast, take part in professional immersion programs with civil society organizations, and meet with the Ambassador for Human Rights or with the geographic analysts at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to discuss the geopolitical situations in their countries.