The Hansard Society is the UK’s leading independent political and education think tank. It was set up more than 65 years ago with the support of Winston Churchill and Clement Atlee, who wanted to ensure that democracy would be safeguarded by being understood, debated and improved by parliamentarians and the public. The Society seeks to strengthen parliamentary democracy and encourage greater public involvement in politics. It has an unparalleled reputation in the political world and an unrivalled network of contacts. For more than 20 years, the Hansard Society has been organising the Hansard Research Scholars Programme. This programme offers an outstanding opportunity for graduates and professionals from around the world to gain practical knowledge of the British political system by undertaking an internship in the Houses of Parliament, a government ministry or in wider civil society. In addition to the internships, Scholars have the opportunity to take courses in association with the London School of Economics and to participate in seminars with senior political, media and civic leaders.
Like Fulbright, the Hansard Research Scholars Programme is meant to serve and nurture future leaders. This common goal has led us to collaborate on a new venture to open up the Hansard Programme to American Fulbright Scholars as part of their studies in the UK.