We are seeking junior researchers and policy experts under the age of 35 who would like to conduct an independent research project on how to future-proof Europe.
The Charlemagne Prize Fellowship is a one-year, non-residential programme sponsored by the Charlemagne Prize Academy. Each Fellowship carries a stipend of €20,000 per research project.
We are looking for innovative research ideas and creative approaches to Europe's challenges of tomorrow!
Annual Focus Topic: Shield or Share: How to Navigate Europe in Times of Division?
Europe is confronting a historic juncture, marked by shifting geopolitical alliances, economic volatility, resource scarcity, and urgent demands for digital sovereignty and sustainability. We invite bold, cross-disciplinary research proposals that investigate how Europe can strategically “shield” its foundational interests while responsibly “sharing” values, alliances, resources, and objectives in times of combined pressure.
The following points are intended to inspire and stimulate research projects that we would be delighted to support with a research grant in the upcoming academic year:
* New Global Landscape: How can Europe recalibrate its foreign and economic partnerships across the EU, NATO, the "Global South", and other strategic blocs to balance autonomy and alliance?
* Economic Resilience and Resource Security: In the face of inflation, supply chain fragility, and global competition, how can European economic systems distinguish themselves and buffer the continent? What strategies can ensure innovation, production, and access to critical raw materials—such as rare earths, semiconductors, or green energy components—without compromising values or creating dependency?
* Digital and Ecological Transformation: How can resilience be embedded in digital and environmental frameworks? What infrastructure—from cyber capabilities to data platforms—must Europe build to preserve democratic integrity in an AI-driven world? How can Europe lead actions towards sustainability and nature conservation?
* Preparing for the Next Crisis: How might Europe respond to escalating ideological pressure, future pandemics, or demographic shifts? Which emerging vectors warrant immediate attention and research?
* Cutting-Edge Research: How does your research endeavour position Europe as a top-tier research haven? How can Europe, amid current transformations, tangibly create to outcompete on the global stage and lead through innovation?
The Fellowship programme is open to all research projects and disciplines that offer concrete, innovative, and feasible approaches to address the complex and interdisciplinary challenges in a European context. We highly encourage young scholars of all fields, young professionals, or employees of scientific, political, or public institutions to hand in their research proposals for the research year 2024/25 by August 11.
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