American University Human Rights Essay Award 2026

The American University Human Rights Essay Award is an annual award sponsored by the Academy to encourage academic articles in international human rights law. For 2026, the topic is The right to protest under international human rights law: legal protection and challenges ahead. Two awards are given for best articles (English and Spanish), each including a full tuition scholarship to the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (travel, housing and per diem not included). Selected articles may be published in the American University International Law Review.

Full tuition scholarship for the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (English or Spanish edition); potential publication in the American University International Law Review.

Must hold a law degree (J.D., LL.B. or equivalent) and have demonstrated interest in international human rights law; essay must be an academic legal article with proper citations.

Visit the provided application form link to submit the essay and required materials.