UNU-MERIT MMPAF Programme 2026: Apply for Online Training in Migration and Asylum Policy
The Moving the Migration Policy Agenda Forward (MMPAF) Programme 2026 is an online capacity-building initiative offered by UNU-MERIT for professionals and government officials working in migration and asylum policy.
Overview
The Moving the Migration Policy Agenda Forward (MMPAF) Programme 2026 is an intensive, tutor-led online training initiative provided by the United Nations University – Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT). Funded by the European Union through the Migration Partnership Facility of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), the programme aims to strengthen the capacity of professionals handling migration and asylum policies. For 2026, participants can choose between two specialised one-week online courses:
- Irregular Migration: Runs from 23 to 27 November 2026, taught by Dr. Lalaine Siruno.
- Migration and Development: Runs from 30 November to 4 December 2026, taught by Prof. Khalid Koser.
Each course is delivered on a full-time basis, requiring a commitment of approximately 40 hours per week and incorporating online lectures, interactive learning, practical exercises, workshops, and Problem-Based Learning.
Eligibility
Applicants must satisfy specific academic, professional, and regional criteria:
- Professional Background: Primarily targeted at government officials and civil servants working in migration and asylum. Other interested practitioners and students may also apply.
- Employer Support: Government employees must provide full, written support from their employers confirming exemption from normal work duties during the course.
- Academic Qualification: Must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree.
- Language: Must be fluent in spoken and written English.
- Technical Requirements: Must possess sufficient computer skills for online education.
- Identification: Must provide a valid passport or identity document copy.
- Geographical Scope: Open to eligible applicants from designated regions, including the EU Southern Neighbourhood, Silk Route, Central Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and South Asia.
Benefits
Selected participants gain specialized instruction from experienced academics and experts, advanced understanding of pressing migration and asylum challenges, hands-on policy formulation skills, and opportunities to network with international peers through a structured online environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their details and required supporting documentation through the official online application portal before the closing date.
Deadline
The deadline to submit applications is 4 October 2026 at 23:59 CEST.