DILI, 09 September 2025 (TATOLI) – The European Union Delegation in Timor-Leste has announced the opening of applications for the second edition of the Scholars Programme on EU-ASEAN Relations (SPEAR) 2025.
The “Scholars Programme on EU-ASEAN Relations (SPEAR)” is a programme organised by the EU Delegation to ASEAN.
The programme is designed to introduce participants to the ‘nuts and bolts of EU-ASEAN relations, serve to expose participants to EU-ASEAN cooperation and inform them of latest developments in EU-ASEAN affairs.
The SPEAR programme aims to provide international relations academics – university lecturers, scholars and researchers, etc. – with a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of EU-ASEAN relations.
The programme will take place in Jakarta, Indonesia, on 11 and 12 November. Applications are open from 2 September to 3 October, with results to be announced on 20 October.
The 1st edition of the SPEAR was launched in December 2023, with 20 participants selected for a series of online sessions held in February-March 2024.
Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining your educational and professional background, career achievements, written publications, etc.
- Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words): A personal statement explaining your motivation, career goals and interest in the topic within the scope of EU-ASEAN relations.
- Supporting Documents: Copies of your valid ID, Master’s degree certificate and at least one reference letter.
Eligibility:
- Current profession: Scholars, lecturers or researchers focusing on international relations, ASEAN studies, EU foreign policy or related fields
- Academic background: A Master’s degree or equivalent
- Nationality: Citizens of ASEAN Member States (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) or Timor-Leste
- Language: Fluent in English
- Research or teaching interests: Demonstrated interest in EU-ASEAN related issues
- Commitment: Willingness to attend all programme sessions and actively participate throughout
- Alumni: Previous participants of the SPEAR programme may be considered
EU-ASEAN relations span 47 years and have steadily progressed. The EU-ASEAN region to region relations exemplify such interaction. The EU and ASEAN elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership in December 2020. The four main areas of cooperation under the Strategic Partnership are: economic cooperation, security cooperation, sustainable connectivity and sustainable development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
