Migration is one of the most critical global challenges, impacting economies, societies, and political structures worldwide. To address these complexities, the UNU-MERIT (United Nations University – Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology) has designed the “Moving Migration Policy Agenda Forward” (MMPAF) programme. This initiative aims to enhance the understanding of migration policies and their implementation, providing participants with the tools and knowledge to influence and advance migration policy discussions.

Eligibility

The MMPAF programme is tailored for professionals, policymakers, and practitioners involved in migration policy development, implementation, or research. Applicants should ideally have a background in migration-related fields or extensive experience working with migration issues in governmental or non-governmental organizations. Fluency in English is essential since all courses and discussions are conducted in English.

Applications are welcome from the following eligible countries:

EU Southern Neighbourhood Countries: Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, State of Palestine, Syria and Tunisia 
South Asia: India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Pakistan.
Sub-Sahara Africa: Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia, The Gambia, Uganda.
Silk Route Countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Bangladesh.
Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan.

Key eligibility criteria:

  • Experience in migration or related fields
  • Proficiency in English (speaking and writing)
  • Strong interest in migration policy and governance

Scholarships

UNU-MERIT offers a limited number of scholarships for the MMPAF programme. These scholarships aim to support individuals from low-income or developing countries who may not have the financial means to participate otherwise. Candidates can apply for these scholarships during the application process by indicating their need for financial assistance.

Scholarship benefits include:

  • Coverage of tuition fees
  • Potential travel and accommodation support (depending on the scholarship)

How to Apply?

To apply for the MMPAF programme, interested candidates need to complete an online application form through the UNU-MERIT website. The application process requires candidates to provide a detailed CV, a statement of interest explaining their motivation for joining the programme, and any relevant academic or professional references.

Application steps:

  1. Visit the UNU-MERIT website and navigate to the MMPAF programme page.
  2. Complete the online application form, providing all required documents.
  3. Submit the application before the stated deadline.

Key Dates and Deadlines

For those interested in the MMPAF programme, it is important to keep track of the following key dates and deadlines:

  • Application deadline: Typically falls in early September each year.
  • Notification of admission: Successful applicants will be informed by mid-October.
  • Programme commencement: The MMPAF course begins in late November.

Please refer to the UNU-MERIT website for the most up-to-date deadlines and programme schedules.