Applications are now open for the ASEF ASEM Human Rights Seminar 2026, a fully funded international seminar taking place in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from 30 March to 1 April 2026.
This three-day, in-person capacity-building program focuses on Future-Proofing AI: Building Human-in-the-Loop Governance Skills for Rights-Respecting AI. The seminar is organised by the Asia–Europe Foundation (ASEF) in collaboration with co-organisers of the Informal ASEM Human Rights Seminar (ASEMHRS) series.
There is no application fee, and all major expenses—including return airfare, accommodation, and meals—are fully covered.
ASEF ASEM Human Rights Seminar 2026 – Key Details
- Host Country: Indonesia
- City: Yogyakarta
- Program Duration: 3 days
- Dates: 30 March – 1 April 2026
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Regions: Asia & Europe (ASEM Member Countries)
- Application Deadline: 8 February 2026
Financial Benefits
The program is fully funded, and selected participants will receive:
- Return airfare to Yogyakarta
- Four (4) nights of accommodation
- Meals and refreshments throughout the seminar
Program Theme
Future-Proofing AI: Building Human-in-the-Loop Governance Skills for Rights-Respecting AI
Program Objective
The seminar aims to strengthen participants’ understanding of how human rights principles can be effectively integrated into artificial intelligence (AI) governance, with a focus on collaboration between Asia and Europe.
Core Objectives
Participants will:
- Strengthen their understanding of the relationship between AI and human rights
- Develop the ability to critically assess AI-related human rights issues
- Build capacity to design context-sensitive and people-centred AI governance frameworks
Expected Program Outcomes
By the end of the seminar, participants will be able to:
- Explain the intersection between AI systems and human rights considerations
- Compare regional perspectives on AI governance in Asia and Europe
- Critically analyse real-world AI and human rights cases through collaborative discussions
- Identify emerging trends, challenges, and key stakeholders in AI governance
- Design practical, rights-respecting AI governance approaches relevant to their sectors
- Develop action-oriented strategies to mitigate human rights risks in AI systems
- Contribute to broader regional frameworks for transparent, accountable, and ethical AI governance
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Must reside in an ASEM member country (51 countries across Asia and Europe, including the EU and ASEAN Secretariat)
- Professional Experience: Early-career professionals with 1–5 years of relevant experience
- Field of Work: Actively involved in implementing, evaluating, researching, or advocating for AI deployment
- Selection Size: Approximately 25–30 participants will be selected
Target Participants
The seminar is designed for professionals working in:
- Industry & Technology: Decision-makers influencing AI deployment and innovation
- Civil Society & Advocacy: Professionals addressing AI-related harms and accountability
- Research & Academia: Scholars contributing to interdisciplinary AI and human rights discourse
- Policy & Regulation: Emerging professionals implementing AI governance frameworks and institutional rules
How to Apply
Interested applicants must complete the online application form via the official website.
APPLY FOR THE ASEF ASEM HUMAN RIGHTS SEMINAR 2026
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