In memory of Zaida Catalána scholarships are in support of women, peace and security:
In 2020, FBA was tasked by the Swedish Government to establish a scholarship aimed at supporting the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on women, peace and security. The purpose is to pay attention to young peacebuilders who are working to promote women’s participation in conflict resolution. The scholarship is established in memory of Zaida Catalán, who was seconded from FBA to several international peace operations where she served as gender expert.
The UNSCR 1325 on women, peace and security, together with subsequent resolutions, constitutes the agenda for women, peace and security. The agenda states that the inclusion of women in the prevention, management and solution of conflicts is crucial for sustainable peace and security. The resolutions also highlight the need to improve the protection of women and girls against violence and the consequences of conflicts.
Who can apply for the Zaida Catalána scholarships and how does it work?
The scholarship targets young peacebuilders at the beginning of their career, with a confirmed strong dedication to the women, peace and security agenda and efforts for gender equality.
For one year, the selected scholarship holders will have the opportunity to gain experience within this field and contribute to the promotion of peace and security at a civil society organization in Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or Palestine – the countries where Zaida Catalán was on secondment from FBA. In addition, the scholarship holders will be part of capacity building and training offered by FBA.
Applicants are required to have two years of relevant work experience from the local context, and to have the intention to continue as agents of change to promote women, peace and security on the ground when the scholarship ends.
The scholarship holders will receive a package of allowances to ensure a good standard of living. FBA also covers some of the hosting organizations’ expenses for scholarship holders, so that they can have an instructive and rewarding placement as well as safe working conditions.
FBA accepts applications for scholarships in the DRC, Palestine and Afghanistan, with placement in Pakistan due to the security situation.
Terms of reference for the DRC:
Apply for the scholarship in the DRC:
Terms of reference for Palestine:
Apply for the scholarship in Palestine:
Terms of reference for Afghanistan/Pakistan:
https://fba.se/globalassets/zaida-catalan/2.-terms-of-reference-b4a-20221125.pdf
Apply for the scholarship in Afghanistan/Pakistan:
FAQ about the scholarship:
Read more about the selection process:
FBA is Sweden’s expert agency for the implementation of the women, peace and security agenda.