Women in security programme

About the programme

The Women in Security Programme is a flagship initiative of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Philippines designed to empower the next generation of Filipina leaders in the fields of security, foreign policy, peacebuilding, and governance.

While Filipina women have long played vital yet often underrecognized roles in promoting peace and protecting communities, they remain underrepresented in formal institutions shaping the country’s national security and foreign policy. As the Philippines faces increasingly complex challenges, ranging from maritime tensions in the West Philippine Sea to digital threats and climate insecurity, the need for inclusive, people-centered leadership is more urgent than ever.

Through a combination of structured mentorship, thematic workshops, and collaborative projects, the Women in Security  seeks to equip emerging women leaders with the skills, networks, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to national and regional security discourse.

Who should apply
We are seeking early-career Filipina leaders who meet the following criteria:

• Aged 25–35 years old*
• Demonstrated professional involvement in security or allied fields (e.g., peace and conflict, foreign affairs, defense, civil-military relations, climate and human security, international law, journalism, etc.)
• Background in sectors such as academe, civil society, government, media, or grassroots/community organizing
• A strong commitment to social justice, inclusive governance, public service, and values-driven leadership

Applicants from under-represented regions and sectors are strongly encouraged to apply.

There is no programme fee for participating in the programme. However, participants must be prepared to cover their own transportation costs to the venues, which will be in Makati or Quezon City. We also have a limited number of scholarship slots available for participants coming from Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, which will cover airfare and accommodations.

^{*The programme is primarily intended for applicants aged 25–35. However, those younger or older than the specified range may be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you are outside the age bracket, please include a short explanation in your letter of intent detailing why you are seeking special consideration,}
 

What to expect

• Mentorship from leading Filipina experts in national security, peacebuilding, geopolitics, and governance
• Workshops on critical topics including maritime security, defense policy, foreign relations, and gender in peace and security
• Collaborative outputs such as policy briefs, op-eds, or research paper developed with mentor guidance
• Networking opportunities with policymakers, experts, and fellow emerging leaders
• Certificate of Completion upon fulfilment of programme requirements

Programme components

• July 30–31
  In-Person programme launch & workshop
• August 16, September 13, October 11
  (Saturday mornings) Online expert insights series
• November 11–13
  In-Person SSGR Conference & culminating activity
• Monthly Mentoring Sessions
  Scheduled individually with mentors

If you’d like to learn more about the application process and eligibility requirements, download the full Call for Applications. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for a brief interview. Be part of shaping a more inclusive, secure, and democratic future. Apply now and join the FES Women in Security network of women leaders.