News, insights & analysis
The challenges facing our societies are complex, fast-moving and deeply interconnected. We convene our Fellows’ community online and in person, creating spaces for constructive dialogue, exchange and learning. Here, you can find individual and collective perspectives, analysis and stories from JST Fellows and partners – leaders working at the frontlines of social change across Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
From policy analysis to personal reflections and practitioner insights, this is where the JST network thinks out loud – curious, constructive and grounded in experience.
Moldova must defend its democratic values
Russia’s interference in Moldova’s EU referendum and presidential election is a wake-up call we must not ignore, say JST Fellows Olimpia Gribincea and Ilie Chirtoacă.
Fellows call for Georgian state to protect human rights and end violence
JST Fellows from Georgia are calling for the state to protect human rights amid ongoing violence against peaceful protesters following the country’s parliamentary elections on 26 October.
Justice for torture survivors in Belarus
What does justice look like for torture survivors when the perpetrators remain in power? Viktoryia Fiodarava is working on a plan to amplify the opinions of survivors of torture in Belarus.
Ukrainian Women’s Leadership Programme – Next Steps
University of Edinburgh Business School in partnership with John Smith Trust brought together 20 Ukrainian women displaced in Scotland, due to unprovoked war for 4 days of the leadership programme. The programme was led by a team of academics and practitioners with expertise in strategy, conflict resolution, communications, and leadership. The programme aimed to provide […]
Building stronger ties between Scotland and Ukraine
JST has become a member of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Ukraine.
Ukraine: setting the scene for an inclusive recovery
Ukraine is planning for recovery and reconstruction as it continues to fight for its freedom. JST Fellow Victor Liakh, president of East Europe Foundation (EEF), shares his perspective on the role civil society can play in rebuilding his country.
Little Sun challenges disability stereotypes in Armenia
Children with disabilities and their families often face stigma, exclusion and poverty in Armenia. JST Fellow Tigranuhi Akopyan is changing attitudes and creating a workplace where disabled young people can shine.
JST launches Wider Europe and Central Asia Fellowship Programme
We’re inviting exceptional young professionals and change-makers from 10 countries to apply for our Wider Europe and Central Asia Fellowship Programme. We welcome applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.
New law marks watershed for women in Kazakhstan
On 15 April, Kazakhstan passed a new law that criminalises domestic violence and strengthens measures to protect women and children. Civil servant Naila Mukhtarova explains why this is an important moment for Kazakh society.
JST launches new 2024 Fellowship programme for Belarusians in exile
Apply now for our ‘Leaders in Exile: Future of Belarus’ Fellowship’ to support your work towards a free and peaceful society.
Georgian Fellows stand with protestors
JST Fellows Salome Ugalava and Tamar Oniani are at the forefront of efforts to oppose the “foreign agent” law, which has ignited mass protests across Georgia.
John Smith legacy: championing women in public life
On International Women’s Day (8 March), we held a special event with the John Smith Centre to celebrate women’s achievements and mark 30 years of John Smith’s legacy.