Program: UN OHCHR Fellowship Program 2026.
Location: Geneva, Switzerland.
Host Institution: OHCHR, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Funding: Fully funded.
Program Dates: 9 November to 27 November 2026.
Deadline: 15 May 2026.
The UN OHCHR Fellowship Program 2026 is a fully funded fellowship that takes place once a year in Geneva. It is meant for people of African descent living in the diaspora and offers a focused human rights training experience at the OHCHR.
What the Fellowship Offers
The fellowship gives participants first-hand exposure to the UN human rights system and human rights mechanisms. It also helps them build skills in project proposal development, public speaking, and presentations.
Moreover, the program supports learning about international human rights law and the framework used to confront racism, racial discrimination, intolerance, and related issues affecting people of African descent.
Who Can Apply
• The applicant must be of African descent and live in the diaspora.
• The applicant must have at least 4 years of work experience related to the rights of people of African descent.
• The applicant must be proficient in English.
• The applicant must be able to attend the entire fellowship period.
• The applicant must be able to secure a visa for Switzerland.
• The applicant must provide a certification letter from an organization working on African descent or minority rights issues.
What Is Covered
✓ Financial support is provided to participants.
✓ Return economy-class airfare is covered.
✓ Basic health insurance is included.
✓ A stipend is provided for accommodation and other living expenses.
✓ Participants gain exposure to racism and related intolerance issues and the legal frameworks used to address them.
✓ The fellowship also offers international networking and career development opportunities.
Application Process
Applications may be submitted in English, French, or Spanish. Candidates must email the application form and required documents to [email protected]. The documents should be renamed in the order of “LAST NAME First name – Type of document.” The email subject must read “Application for the 2026 Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent.” Also, submissions with more than five attachments will be disqualified.
Documents Needed
• Completed application form.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Personal statement of 500 words explaining the motivation for applying.
• Official letter from the nominating organization.
• Copy of passport.
Deadline
The final date to submit applications for the UN OHCHR Fellowship Program 2026 is 15 May 2026.
Apply Here
