Applications are now open for the ASEF ASEM Human Rights Seminar (ASEMHRS) 2026, a fully funded, in-person international seminar that will be held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from 30 March to 1 April 2026. This prestigious program is open to international participants, and there is no application fee.
The seminar is organized by the Asia–Europe Foundation (ASEF) in collaboration with the co-organizers of the Informal ASEM Human Rights Seminar (ASEMHRS) series. It brings together policymakers, researchers, civil society actors, and practitioners from across Asia and Europe.
The core theme of the 2026 seminar is:
“Future-Proofing AI: Building Human-in-the-Loop Governance Skills for Rights-Respecting AI.”
This three-day capacity-building program focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence, governance, and human rights. Participants will gain practical tools and policy insights to ensure AI systems remain transparent, accountable, inclusive, and aligned with international human rights standards.
Through interactive workshops, expert-led discussions, and peer learning, participants will explore emerging challenges and solutions related to AI governance in real-world contexts.
Program Overview
- Program Name: ASEF ASEM Human Rights Seminar (ASEMHRS) 2026
- Opportunity Type: International Seminar
- Dates: 30 March – 1 April 2026
- Host City: Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Organized By: Asia–Europe Foundation (ASEF)
- Eligible Regions: Asia & Europe (ASEM member countries)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
Program Core Objectives
The seminar aims to:
- Strengthen participants’ understanding of the relationship between AI and human rights
- Improve the ability to identify, analyze, and address human rights risks linked to AI systems
- Build practical skills to design people-centered, context-aware AI governance frameworks
- Promote AI policies that respect human dignity, transparency, and accountability
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Geographic Eligibility: Must be a resident of an ASEM member country (51 countries across Asia and Europe, plus the EU and ASEAN Secretariat)
- Career Stage: Early-career professionals with 1–5 years of relevant experience
- Current Engagement: Actively involved in AI-related policy, governance, research, advocacy, or implementation
- Selection Size: Approximately 25–30 participants will be selected
Suitable Profiles Include:
- Industry professionals involved in AI decision-making with public or commercial impact
- Civil society actors and human rights advocates working on AI accountability and harm prevention
- Researchers and academics contributing to AI governance and public debate
- Policy and regulatory professionals translating AI frameworks into real-world practice
Benefits (Fully Funded)
Selected participants will receive complete financial support, including:
- Return international airfare (for eligible participants)
- Local transportation between airport, hotel, and seminar venue
- Free accommodation for 4 nights during the program
- All meals included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Tea, coffee, and refreshments during sessions and breaks
- Free access to all training and learning materials
- No registration or participation fees at any stage
Application Deadline
📅 8 February 2026
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early, as the program is highly competitive.
👉 Apply now and join a global dialogue on AI, governance, and human rights in Indonesia!
