Applications are open for the Fully funded UN Fellowship 2026. The application deadline is 31st October 2025.

The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples is once again opening its doors for applications for the 2026 Indigenous Fellowship Programme, administered by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

This fully funded UN program is a rare opportunity for indigenous leaders, advocates, and community representatives from around the world to travel to Geneva, Switzerland, and engage directly with the UN human rights system. Over the years, this fellowship has empowered hundreds of Indigenous fellows to amplify their voices, advocate for their communities, and influence international human rights discussions at the highest level.

If you are passionate about defending indigenous rights, promoting sustainability, and learning how the United Nations mechanisms function in practice — this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

 Benefits of the Fully Funded UN Fellowship 2026

• Fully Funded Opportunity – The fellowship covers return airfare to Geneva, accommodation, living expenses, and basic health insurance throughout the program.
• Training by UN Experts – Fellows receive hands-on training on human rights, UN mechanisms, and international advocacy directly from OHCHR specialists.
• Direct Engagement with UN Processes – Participants attend and contribute to sessions such as the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP).
• Global Networking – Build lifelong connections with Indigenous leaders, activists, and policymakers from across continents.
• Capacity Building for Communities – Fellows return to their home countries equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to strengthen indigenous organizations and community leadership.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to applicants from all regions of the world who identify as indigenous persons and are actively engaged in promoting or protecting the rights of their communities.

To be eligible:

• Applicants must be indigenous and nominated or endorsed by an indigenous organization or community.
• Must demonstrate active involvement in human rights, environmental protection, or social development initiatives.
• Must have a good working knowledge of one of the UN program languages (English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese).
• There is no age or academic degree requirement — commitment to your community and willingness to learn are what matter most.
• Indigenous women, youth, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Procedure For the Fully Funded UN Fellowship 2026

Interested candidates should prepare the following:

1. Completed application form (Parts I & II) available on the official OHCHR website.
2. Nomination or endorsement letter from an indigenous organization or community.
3. All documents must be submitted in one of the UN languages (English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese).

Send the completed documents by the given deadline to the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme.

Additional Information

Selected fellows will undergo intensive training on human rights standards, UN advocacy techniques, and indigenous rights protection. By the end of the fellowship, participants will be equipped to represent their communities in international forums and strengthen local governance through knowledge transfer.

This program is fully funded by the UN and offers not just academic insight but a transformative personal and professional experience. It’s your chance to be part of a global movement that shapes the future of indigenous representation at the United Nations.

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