Clooney Foundation for Justice Opens 2027 Fellowship
The Clooney Foundation for Justice is accepting applications until October 20, 2026, for its 2027 fellowship program.
Applications are now open for the Clooney Foundation for Justice (CFJ) Fellowship 2027, with a deadline of October 20, 2026. The program will select ten early-career African women lawyers for paid work placements at human rights organizations across four African nations.
The fellowship, administered in partnership with the Legal Empowerment Fund at the Fund for Global Human Rights, aims to develop a new generation of justice champions for women and children on the continent. According to the source, the program specifically focuses on combating child marriage and violence against women and children through legal means.
Program Structure and Host Countries
Selected fellows will be placed within diverse human rights and justice organizations in Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, and The Gambia. Placements include legal aid providers, select universities with legal aid clinics, and government prosecution services. The goal is to provide legal services for women and children at all stages of the justice process.
Fellows will receive immersive practical work experience, conducting duties such as legal research, drafting, client support, and court representation. The program also incorporates a technological component, with training provided in partnership with Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab and the Oxford Institute of Technology. Fellows will be encouraged to apply innovative tools to advance their legal work.
Fellowship Benefits and Support
The fellowship offers a comprehensive package of support beyond the paid placement. This includes mentorship from the Justice for Women & Children Programme Director, supervisors at host organizations, and regional human rights experts.
Participants will attend at least one in-person gathering with other fellows, supervisors, and senior CFJ leadership. They will also join an extensive monthly online training program led by experts. Upon completion, fellows gain access to a global network of human rights professionals and enrollment in an alumni program for continued collaboration.
Eligibility Requirements
Prospective applicants must meet specific criteria outlined by the foundation. A law degree from a recognized institution and a practicing certificate from the host country are mandatory.
Experience in women’s rights and human rights work is preferred. The source notes that the program cannot support costs related to international relocation or acquiring work authorization.
Application Process and Timeline
The application window for the 2027 fellowship class closes on October 20, 2026. Successful applicants are expected to begin their placements in January 2027. The source directs interested candidates to visit the CFJ Fellowship website for more information.
The program seeks self-starters with excellent communication and teamwork skills, a demonstrated commitment to human rights, and creativity in crafting legal strategies. Additional preference is given to those with experience working directly with survivors or vulnerable communities.
