Asia Leadership Fellow Program (ALFP)

The Asia Leadership Fellow Program (ALFP), launched by the International House of Japan and the Japan Foundation, aims at building a network of public intellectuals who are committed to civil society in Asia. The Program selects 6-7 Fellows every year from different Asian countries and so far, more than 70 Fellows from 15 countries of the continent have benefited from it. The Program was initiated in 1990 to respond to the challenges arising out of globalization, where unequal development in some parts of Asia has resulted in “mistrust, intolerance, ignorance and indifference.” Such challenges need to be met so that there is participation of all communities from diverse backgrounds in mainstream development. However, it is not possible for the state or the market to address these challenges and hence, participation of the civil society is critical. So, ALFP has been designed to give opportunities for intellectuals from diverse background to take part in dialogue and strengthen action against globalization problems. The selected fellows in the Program get an opportunity to participate in workshops, seminars, field trips, symposium and a retreat with Japanese and non-Japanese scholars and NGO leaders.

Citizens of Northeast, Southeast and South Asia Countries are eligible to apply for the Program. They should be between 35 and 59 years of age. Fluency in English is required. There is no specific professional background required, but candidates “have demonstrated outstanding leadership ability or potential in their own professions.”

The program will provide each Fellow with the following:

1. Round-trip economy airfare between Tokyo and the city where the Fellow is based
2. Daily Allowance (to cover accommodations, meals and other incidentals)
3. Medical insurance during the Fellowship in Japan
4. Other costs related to group activities, including a field trip and a retreat

The last date for submission of applicants is 26 December 2008. Applications can be sent by email or fax. The application formats can be downloaded from this link. For more information, visit this link.

The ALFP Secretariat contact information is below:

The ALFP Secretariat
c/o Program Department
International House of Japan
5-11-16, Roppongi, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 106-0032, JAPAN
Tel: +81-3-3470-3211
Fax: +81-3-3470-3170
E-mail: alfp@i-house.or.jp
URL: http://www.i-house.or.jp/en/ProgramActivities/alfp/index.htm