Are you a young leader from Kyrgyzstan working in politics, local government or civil society? The John Smith Fellowships offer you the chance to strengthen and deepen your democratic awareness and leadership skills with a five week course in the UK, combining seminars, work placements and visits.

What is the John Smith Fellowship?
The John Smith Fellowship Programme was established to provide a permanent memorial to one of Britain’s best-loved politicians. John Smith was the Leader of the Labour Party and, by the time of his death in May 1994, was widely expected to become the next Prime Minister. He was admired for his advocacy of public service, democratic government and social justice. The Fellowship Programme promotes the high ideals he embodied.

The John Smith Fellowship Programme is a partnership between the John Smith Memorial Trust, Ministry of Justice and British Council. The John Smith Memorial Trust is a charity independent of any political party.

The main objects of the Programme are to:

			Bring together influential young civil society and political leaders to exchange views and receive training and information on democratic practices and the promotion of good government.
			Deepen awareness of how a mature democracy supports and develops good governance, the Rule of Law, human rights and social justice, and encourages democratic access and accountability.
			Promote a dialogue between Fellows within and outside their home countries, and create and maintain links with young leaders and those working in similar fields in the UK.

Can you apply?
Normally, successful candidates are aged between 25 and 35 and in employment at the time of application. Outstanding candidates may be considered even if they do not meet these criteria. Preference is given to applicants working in:

			the political process, e.g. in parliament or in a reputable political party/institution
			legal services, especially in the field of human rights
			journalism/broadcasting
			government service (including local government)
			NGOs with explicit involvement in furthering democracy, equal rights and social justice, or promoting democratic access, participation and accountability in government.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate leadership and influence, exercised in their current work, and a commitment to democratic reform. A high standard of competence in the English language (both written and spoken) is essential.

Successful candidates must have real prospects of advancement in their work and an ambition to contribute actively to the development of good governance and democratic reform in their countries. They should be confident in public speaking with a desire to advocate the values and principles of democracy. Basic computer literacy – particularly the use of email – is generally very important.

The John Smith Fellowship will cover all costs incurred by the Fellows taking part in the Programme. Please note that no provision is made for an accompanying spouse or children. Fellows should not bring families to the UK with them unless they have ample funds for their support.

How to apply?

Applications for the year 2008 Programme must be emailed as a Microsoft Word document, no later than NOVEMBER 20^th 2007. Applicants are also required to submit a printed, signed copy by that date with original letters of reference and a passport sized photograph (a digital photo is preferred if possible). Applicants should be aware that local interviews will take place during January 2008, and should bear this in mind when planning holidays/travel. Successful interviewees may be asked to sit the IELTS exam at the end of January 2008. A minimum level of IELTS of 6.0 is normally needed for successful candidates. Not all finalists are required to sit a test. However, the interview panel reserves the right to require a test at their discretion. The cost of this exam and related costs will be covered by the John Smith Memorial Trust.  Final selection of candidates will be concluded by mid February 2008.

If you wish to take part in the Programme, please fill in the application form and send it to Zarema Nurakhunova and in a sealed envelope to either

• HM Honorary Consul in Bishkek, c/o Fatboy’s Café, 104 Prospekt Chui, Bishkek 720040
• or the British Council, 13 Republic Square, Almaty 050013

For further information please contact  or visit John Smith Fellowship website.