Mariam Al-Shafei Fellowship on Technology and Human Rights

SMEX invites fellows to undertake one-year research, policy analysis, or technology development projects based on their areas of interest and expertise. SMEX will offer technical mentorship, skills-building and networking opportunities, resources for research, advocacy support, and overall room for the fellows to endeavor on the topic of their choosing.

The Mariam Al-Shafei Fellowship on Technology and Human Rights is open to early to mid-career candidates based in or with significant ties to West Asia and North Africa. Individuals whose work contributes to advancing civic issues at the intersection of technology and society, including data scientists, sociologists, policy experts, journalists, digital rights activists, economists, artists, and actors from relevant areas, are encouraged to apply. Since projects will heavily rely on research, SMEX invites those currently enrolled in or recently completed postgraduate work to apply for this fellowship.

Topics

• For the year 2024, SMEX will be welcoming five non-resident fellows committed to working on the following topics:
  • Digital Resilience in the Global South
  • Internet Governance in West Asia and North Africa
  • Freedom of Expression in Lebanon
  • Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and Digital Rights
  • Feminism and Digital Rights

What does SMEX offer fellows?

• Working with a mentor who is a technical expert in a field related to the fellow’s topic
• Monthly meetings with a mentor and/or fellowship program manager to support the fellows as they execute their approved work plan, as well as quarterly convening for the entire cohort to share their progress and benefit from peer support and feedback
• A monthly stipend of $900 net
• Fully paid travel and accommodation to attend SMEX’s annual Bread&Net event
• Access to SMEX’s extensive digital rights network, including coalitions SMEX convenes and introductions to practitioners who may offer platforms and other opportunities for collaboration
• Training related to digital security and campaigning
• Additional funds may be available to cover costs associated with attending one additional conference or meeting of direct relevance to the topic researched and located in the WANA region

What does SMEX expect from the fellows?

• This 10-month, part-time fellowship requires a commitment of approximately 15 hours per week, including active participation in monthly virtual meetings. Fellows will report directly to the Fellowship Coordinator, maintaining regular communication with their line manager. They will work closely with mentors to create project plans and timelines. Progress reports highlighting challenges, lessons learned, and major achievements must be submitted monthly to SMEX, ensuring transparency and adaptability throughout the fellowship.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants are expected to have demonstrable experience in and commitment to protecting and promoting digital rights and internet freedoms. The strongest candidates will have thought about how their project ‘grows the field’ of digital rights.
  • Geographical Eligibility: Applicants should be based in or have significant ties to the West Asia and North Africa (WANA) region.
  • Professional Background: The fellowship is open to early to mid-career professionals, including but not limited to data scientists, sociologists, policy experts, journalists, digital rights activists, economists, artists, and individuals from related fields.
  • Education: Candidates currently enrolled in or have recently completed postgraduate studies are encouraged to apply, as the fellowship projects will require a research-oriented approach.
  • Language Skills: Proficiency in English and Arabic, including strong research, writing, and speaking abilities, is essential.
  • Commitment to Digital Rights: Applicants should demonstrate commitment to protecting and promoting digital rights and internet freedoms.
  • Project Relevance: Ideal candidates will have thoughtfully considered how their proposed project contributes to advancing digital rights and meaningfully ‘growing the field.’
  • Availability: Fellows must be available to commit approximately 15 hours per week to their fellowship responsibilities, including active participation in monthly virtual meetings.
  • Collaborative Spirit: Fellows should be open to collaboration, peer support, and mentor engagement.
  • Professional References: Applicants must provide contact information for two professional references who can speak to their qualifications and commitment.

For more information, visit SMEX.