Irregular Warfare Initiative (IWI) Non-resident Fellowship Program 2026.
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Irregular Warfare Initiative (IWI) Non-resident Fellowship Program 2026.
Applications are now open for the 2026 Irregular Warfare Initiative (IWI) Non-resident Fellows Program, a highly selective fellowship designed for professionals, academics, and military leaders who are passionate about advancing the study and practice of irregular warfare.
The Irregular Warfare Initiative (IWI) is a joint venture between the Modern War Institute at West Point and Princeton University’s Empirical Studies of Conflict Project.
It serves as a global platform that connects military practitioners, policymakers, and scholars to improve understanding of irregular warfare and its implications for modern strategic competition.
The Non-resident Fellows Program is at the heart of this mission. Each year, a new cohort of fellows joins the initiative to contribute research, publish articles, and engage with global defense experts.
Fellows bridge the gap between theoretical insight and operational experience, promoting an informed and dynamic discussion on contemporary security challenges.
The IWI Non-resident Fellows Program brings together a diverse group of professionals from defense, academia, government, and the private sector.
As a fellowship participant, you will be part of a vibrant community dedicated to shaping the next generation of strategic and operational thinking on irregular warfare.
KEY COMPONENTS:
- Fellows contribute to IWI publications through original research, commentary, and analysis on irregular warfare, hybrid threats, and great power competition.
- Participants engage in virtual discussions, events, and panels with global leaders in security and defense.
- Fellows act as thought partners in bridging academia, policy, and military operations through their expertise and experience.
- This fellowship emphasizes collaboration, strategic foresight, and intellectual exchange — empowering its members to influence public discourse and policy decisions in international security.
WHY APPLY FOR THE IWI FELLOWSHIP
Becoming an IWI Non-resident Fellow offers a rare opportunity to engage with a distinguished network of defense professionals and academics worldwide.
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Professional recognition within the global defense and security community.
- Opportunities to publish analytical papers, commentaries, and think pieces under the IWI platform.
- Participation in strategic dialogues and cross-sector collaborations.
- Exposure to international experts in military strategy, counterterrorism, and irregular warfare.
- Career growth and learning, enhancing your leadership profile in national security and defense analysis.
- This fellowship allows participants to make a tangible impact in shaping how governments, institutions, and organizations understand modern conflict and irregular threats.
THE PROGRAM WELCOMES APPLICATIONS FROM:
- Scholars and researchers specializing in international relations, security studies, and defense policy
- Active or retired military officers and defense professionals
- Practitioners in counterterrorism, intelligence, and strategic communications
- Policymakers and think tank experts contributing to the field of irregular warfare and strategic competition
- Applicants should demonstrate exceptional writing and analytical skills, as well as a strong record of thought leadership in their respective domains.
PROGRAM DETAILS
- Program Type: Fellowship (Non-resident)
- Duration: 2026 academic year
- Location: Global (remote participation)
- Deadline: November 6, 2025
Apply here
Applications are now open, and interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline to maximize their chances of selection.
APPLICATION PROCESS
The IWI Non-resident Fellows Program seeks applicants with demonstrated expertise, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to advancing understanding of irregular warfare.
To apply, candidates should prepare:
- A statement of interest outlining their motivation to join the program.
- A curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience and publications.
- Writing samples or publications showcasing their analytical ability and subject matter expertise.
- Applications are submitted online through the IWI application portal.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for additional information or interviews.
If you are a professional or researcher seeking to shape the future of defense strategy, this fellowship offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with international experts and practitioners in the field.
Apply today to become an IWI Non-resident Fellow 2026 and join a global community redefining how the world understands and prepares for irregular warfare.
Deadline: November 6, 2025
