Sangram Rane, a Senior Strategist and Program Manager at the United Nations, is among 14 “extraordinary individuals working on the frontlines of conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict reconciliation around the world,” named the 2026 Yale Peace Fellows.
“At a moment when conflict is intensifying and growing ever more complex, these Fellows embody hope,” said Emma Sky, director of the International Leadership Center (ILC) at Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs.
“They are grappling with some of the world’s most intractable challenges with courage, creativity, and compassion — bridging divides and fostering peace. In the face of fragmentation, they remind us of our shared humanity.”
The Indian United Nations official leading private-sector engagement on the war in Ukraine, and 13 other fellows were selected from a pool of 4,700 applicants, according to an ILC release.
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Rane is currently serving in the UN Task Team focused on the war in Ukraine (Russia – UN Memorandum and Black Sea Initiative), navigating highly sensitive geopolitical challenges and coordinating complex humanitarian initiatives.
Prior to joining the Team, Rane led efforts on the UN Secretary General’s Innovation Lab, conceptualizing the lab, spearheading political affairs and building innovative AI projects and tech partnerships.
His career reflects a unique trajectory amidst the highest levels of UN leadership, having served in two consecutive Executive Offices of UN Secretaries-General.
Rane brings deep expertise in multilateral diplomacy, strategic planning, political analysis and policy development. His work distinctively bridges innovation and technology with peace and security, humanitarian action, and sustainable development.
Before joining the United Nations, Rane worked in consulting, the high-tech industry, and at diplomatic missions. He holds a double Master’s in Management from the London School of Economics and ESADE Business School (CEMS), and completed his Engineering studies and research at Saxion University of Applied Sciences and the University of Twente.
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The Yale Peace Fellowship, hosted by ILC, is designed to support rising peace leaders at a critical moment in their careers — offering space to learn, connect, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Fellows come from a range of professional backgrounds including civil society, diplomacy, politics, religion, and social enterprise. They are selected for their demonstrated impact and commitment to reach their full potential as peace leaders.
Fellows will begin the program with an international study trip to the United Arab Emirates, where they will participate in the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity’s annual ceremony and convening.
The fellowship continues with a series of interactive virtual sessions, followed by a week-long in-person convening at Yale in April 2026.