The UN OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme was launched in 1997 by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). It was in the context of the first International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People. The objective of this training programme is to enhance the knowledge of indigenous peoples. Also,  on existing international human rights instruments and mechanisms. So, they can use them to more effectively advocate for the rights of their communities and raise their concerns at the international level. At the end of the Programme, trained fellows are also in a better position to share. Further,  give training sessions on the knowledge gained to their indigenous communities and organizations.

The training combines theoretical sessions with briefings on the UN system, OHCHR mandate and activities, international Human Rights instruments (Treaties, Conventions, Declarations) and mechanisms (Human Rights Council, Treaty Bodies, Special Procedures) – including those more specifically dealing with indigenous issues (UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, ILO Convention 169, the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, EMRIP). Practical assignments and exercises also help better integrate the theory. Fellows also get the opportunity to actively participate in the annual meeting of EMRIP. Additionally, they get introduced to the work of other UN and specialized agencies (ILO, WIPO, UNESCO, UNICEF) and of Geneva-based Human Rights NGOs, including DoCip.

Benefits

Trained participants are better to assist their organizations and communities in protecting and promoting their rights. This training programme is available in 4 languages: English, Spanish, French, and Russian.

• A return ticket (economy class) from their country of residence to Geneva;
• A daily or monthly stipend to cover their basic needs in Geneva, including modest accommodation, food, and transport;
• Basic health insurance for the duration of the Programme.

OHCHR will not cover any additional expenses such as visa fees and travel insurance.

Eligibility

• The candidate must be indigenous (non-indigenous persons will not be into consideration, even if they have close links with indigenous communities and/or organizations);
• Age should not be a limitation to participation in the programme;
• Formal education should not be a limitation to participation in the IFP given the socio-economic barriers confronted by many indigenous peoples that limit access to formal educational institutions;
• Candidates should agree to train other indigenous persons after the return to their respective communities/organizations;
• The candidate should propose and his/her candidacy supported by his/her indigenous organization and/or community. It is desirable that the sponsoring organization has a firm constituency or membership and that it is representative;
• The candidate should have a good working knowledge of the language.