The Research Grant Schemes (RGS) 2026, offered by SHAPE-SEA Program, represents a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening human rights and peace research across Southeast Asia. Hosted under Mahidol University, the programme is designed to support knowledge production while building research capacity among scholars, students, and academics in the region.
The initiative plays a critical role in amplifying underrepresented voices and generating evidence-based insights on issues affecting marginalized and vulnerable communities. By fostering interdisciplinary research, the programme contributes to shaping inclusive narratives and policy frameworks within the regional human rights and peacebuilding landscape.
Purpose and Strategic Focus
The RGS 2026 is structured to provide financial, technical, and substantive support to researchers conducting empirical studies across key thematic areas. The programme prioritises research that addresses pressing regional challenges while contributing to long-term peace, justice, and human security.
The grants aim to:
- Strengthen research capacity among emerging and established scholars
- Promote inclusive and representative knowledge production
- Support evidence-based advocacy and policymaking
- Encourage regional collaboration among researchers and institutions
A strong emphasis is placed on research that reflects the lived realities of communities whose perspectives are often excluded from mainstream discourse.
Research Themes and Priority Areas
Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals aligned with one or more of the programme’s thematic priorities. These themes reflect critical socio-political and environmental issues affecting Southeast Asia.
Key research areas include:
- Digital Rights and Technology
- Digital surveillance and governance
- Artificial Intelligence ethics and accountability
- Technology-driven disinformation and its impact on peacebuilding
- Rights-based digital economies
- Environmental Justice and Climate Change
- Climate governance and accountability mechanisms
- Rights to a healthy environment
- Climate-induced displacement and resource conflicts
- Protection of environmental human rights defenders
- Democracy and Civic Spaces
- Political repression and strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP)
- Youth-led and grassroots movements
- Academic freedom and digital democracy
- Migration, Displacement, and Development
- Labour migration and human trafficking
- Climate migration and refugee rights
- Gendered impacts of displacement
- Conflict-induced migration dynamics
- Peace, Conflict, and Human Security
- Transnational organised crime
- Ethnic and religious tensions
- Peacebuilding and conflict transformation
- Regional crises, including the Myanmar situation
- Gender, Intersectionality, and Inclusivity
- Rights of women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and indigenous communities
- Disability inclusion and ethnic representation
- Inclusive digital citizenship
Eligibility and Applicant Categories
The RGS 2026 is open to Southeast Asian citizens currently residing in the region. Applicants must fall within one of the following categories:
- Students (M.A. and PhD)
- Enrolled in a postgraduate programme at a recognised institution within Southeast Asia or ASEAN
- Emerging Scholars
- Academics or researchers affiliated with institutions in Southeast Asia
For collaborative research projects:
- The lead researcher must be a Southeast Asian citizen affiliated with a regional institution
- Teams may include up to three members
- All collaborators must be affiliated with Southeast Asian academic or research institutions
This structure ensures both individual and collaborative research efforts are supported, encouraging cross-border academic engagement.
Application Process and Requirements
Applicants are required to carefully review all official documentation before submitting their proposals. This includes the concept note, FAQs, and proposal templates specific to their category.
Required steps include:
- Reviewing the RGS 2026 Concept Note and information package
- Completing the appropriate proposal template (M.A./PhD or Emerging Scholar)
- Ensuring all submitted documents are accurate and complete
Incomplete or incorrect submissions may not be reviewed, and applicants bear full responsibility for document preparation.
Key Dates and Timeline
The RGS 2026 follows a structured timeline to ensure a transparent and efficient selection process:
- Application Period: 20 April – 15 May 2026
- Information Sessions (Online): 20 April – 10 May 2026
- Application Review: 18 – 29 May 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: 1 – 5 June 2026
- Final Results Announcement: 8 June 2026
- Inception Workshops:
- Online: June 2026
- Onsite: July 2026
- Grant Period: June 2026 – January 2027
Applicants are encouraged to adhere strictly to deadlines to ensure eligibility.
Programme Impact and Opportunities
The RGS 2026 offers more than financial support—it provides a platform for intellectual exchange, mentorship, and regional collaboration. Participants gain access to a growing network of scholars, advocates, and institutions committed to advancing human rights and peace in Southeast Asia.
Key benefits include:
- Access to regional research networks
- Opportunities for collaboration and mentorship
- Enhanced academic and policy impact
- Contribution to transformative social change
Conclusion
The Research Grant Schemes 2026 by SHAPE-SEA stands as a significant opportunity for scholars committed to advancing justice, equity, and peace in Southeast Asia. By supporting innovative and inclusive research, the programme strengthens the region’s capacity to address complex social challenges and promotes sustainable, rights-based development.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the grants. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
