From the global AI race to conflicts stretching from Ukraine to the Middle East and the Western Hemisphere, and accelerating climate instability and migration pressures, the future of international cooperation is increasingly uncertain. And with polarization on the rise and trust in institutions eroding, the foreign policy landscape in Washington and around the world is becoming more volatile. For today’s global affairs professionals, these shifts present two challenges: developing policies that can ensure global order in unstable and polarized times, and communicating effectively to build the case for their ideas.  

How can the next generation of researchers and policy experts break through the noise to reach decision makers and help create better outcomes for a fractured world?  Through expert panels examining how to craft lasting foreign policy in polarized times and the role of middle powers in the global AI race, and hands-on breakout sessions to develop communications skills to meet the moment, the 2026 Mort Abramowitz Junior Fellows Conference will provide students and early career professionals with a unique opportunity to engage with the foreign policy community. 

This year, attendees will be asked to apply to attend the conference, and selected applicants will be notified via email. Current undergraduate and graduate students, and early career professionals, are encouraged to apply. Space is limited, please fill out the form here to apply.  

Panels, speakers, and breakout sessions will be announced soon.