Why Researchers Are Applying for RECAS Fellowship 2025

Applications are now open for the 2025 RECAS Fellowship. The program supports advanced research across Southeast Europe. It is hosted by key universities in the region.

The fellowship encourages deep regional academic exchange. Researchers will work on a specific annual theme. This year’s focus is on youth and new political ideas.

Program Focuses on Youth and Democratic Futures

The 2025 theme is “Youth Agency and New Political Imaginaries in the Western Balkans.” It explores how young people envision democratic futures. Researchers will study their responses to stalled EU integration and other challenges.

The program views youth as active producers of political knowledge. It is not merely interested in protest. It seeks to understand their capacity to generate new political visions.

Fellowship Offers Stipend and Academic Network

Selected fellows receive a net monthly stipend of €1,500. They also get office space and institutional support from host universities. According to Reuters, such programs are vital for regional scholarly collaboration.

Fellows can choose from several host institutions. These include universities in Rijeka, Belgrade, and Skopje. Others are in Sarajevo, Ljubljana, Prishtina, Tirana, and Podgorica.

Application Process and Expected Outcomes

The application deadline is October 3, 2025. Applicants must hold a PhD or be advanced doctoral candidates. Fluency in English and a research focus on Southeast Europe are required.

Fellows must produce a research essay and participate in events. These include a Policy Hackathon and a final Surgery Week. Their work will contribute to an Academic Policy Lab repository.

This Southeast Europe fellowship provides a unique platform for action-oriented scholars. It aims to address concrete societal challenges through rigorous research. The program directly invests in the region’s future intellectual capital.

Info at your fingertips

Who is eligible for the RECAS Fellowship?

The fellowship is open to PhD holders and advanced doctoral candidates. Applicants must be fluent in English. Priority is given to researchers focusing on Southeast Europe.

What financial support does the fellowship provide?

Fellows receive a net monthly stipend of €1,500. The program also provides institutional support and office space. Fellows are responsible for their own travel and healthcare costs.

What is the main theme for the 2025 program?

The 2025 theme is “Youth Agency and New Political Imaginaries in the Western Balkans.” It examines how young people imagine and shape democratic futures. Research will focus on new political and eco-digital imaginaries.

Which universities are involved as hosts?

Primary hosts are the Universities of Rijeka and Belgrade. Fellows can also choose co-hosts in Skopje, Sarajevo, Ljubljana, Prishtina, Tirana, or Podgorica. This allows for extensive regional networking.

What are the expected outputs for fellows?

Fellows must produce a research essay or policy brief. They must also participate in a hackathon and a surgery week. A final activity report is required upon completion.

When is the application deadline?

All applications must be submitted by October 3, 2025. The selection process will occur after this date. Successful applicants will be notified directly by the program.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, RECAS Network, University of Rijeka, University of Belgrade.