Project Proposals

We are interested in innovative projects that focus on issues in the general field of International Politics as well as projects that address issues of Translocalism and Subnational Diplomacy. The complexity of international politics, with multiple, overlapping crises, large scale war and many challenges such as climate change, poverty or disinformation campaigns merits in-depth analyses and ideas how to move forward. The role of actors and initiatives beyond the state level who contribute to cooperative or conflictive activities and interlinkages that supplement, but also impact on official diplomatic practices and global politics has become a vital element of international politics. Therefore, AIA NRW aims to initiate discussions and collaborations that reflect on the growing importance of translocality and subnational diplomacy. The goal is to identify and systematically explore what relevance translocal interactions, for instance regional or urban diplomacy, and subnational endeavours, including socio-cultural, business and civil society initiatives, play in shaping international politics. Call for applications – Fellowships 2025/26 3 / 4 Applications that address the focus topic or other vital questions in the field of International Politics are welcome. Both individual and tandem projects can be considered.

Applicants can apply to one of the following two tracks:

(a) Academic Track
For projects that have an explicit academic focus, linking up to ongoing or emerging academic debates, and provide a clear objective on how they contribute to a better understanding of international politics.

(b) Practitioner’s Track
For projects that reflect on international politics from the perspective of practical experience in a relevant professional field and provide a clear objective on how they contribute to a better understanding of international politics.

Application

Applicants need to submit (a) form for applicants AND (b) the following documents compiled in one PDF: (1) a letter of motivation; (2) a proposal* of their envisaged academic project at AIA NRW (max. 5 pages including an abstract; including guiding (research) questions, a brief summary of the state of research in the respective field, a specific work plan/timetable and targeted outputs as well as the expected added value of the stay in Bonn in the particular environment of AIA NRW); (3) a short CV (max. 2 pages). Additionally for the academic track: (4) a complete list of publications, and (5) electronic copies of 2-3 recent journal publications. Call for applications – Fellowships 2025/26 4 / 4

Expectations

Fellows are expected to reside in Bonn during their fellowship, i.e. for no less than three consecutive months. A regular attendance of research group meetings and colloquia, participation in events and willingness to contribute to the publication series are further requirements. Applications need to be submitted to application@aia-nrw.org by June 28th, 2024. Decisions will be taken by the scientific Advisory Board and will be communicated until late September. This call is for fellowships in the period between April 2025 and March 2026.