OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2026 – Fully Funded Human Rights Training in Geneva

The Indigenous Fellowship Programme by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) empowers Indigenous human rights defenders with comprehensive training in UN human rights systems. Now accepting applications for the 2026 cohort.

 Programme Overview

• A 4-week intensive training in Geneva aligned with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (June/July 2026).
• Delivered in English, Spanish, French, Russian, and Portuguese with simultaneous interpretation.

 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be Indigenous individuals—non‑indigenous persons are ineligible even if linked to Indigenous communities .
• Be nominated by an Indigenous organization or representative community.
• Have good working knowledge of the chosen programme language.
• Be committed to returning home and training others in their community. Formal education backgrounds are not mandatory. Support is provided to candidates with diverse socio-economic or educational circumstances.

Diversity is encouraged: women, LGBTQI+ people, and individuals with disabilities are strongly welcomed.

 Fellowship Benefits

Fellows receive:

• Round-trip economy airfare to Geneva
• Monthly stipend and modest living support
• Basic health insurance for the duration
• Access to UN human rights mechanisms and networking with experts ([turn0search3]turn0search8])

 Timeline & Application

• Deadline: 15 September 2025
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland (June–July 2026)
• Application Process: Submit Parts I & II of the official application form, including a recommendation letter from the nominating Indigenous organization. Only complete applications are accepted.

 Why the Fellowship Matters

• Builds capacity for Indigenous defenders, enabling them to elevate human rights advocacy back home
• Provides exposure to UN human rights structures, legal instruments, and global Indigenous dialogues
• Taps into a community of global Indigenous leaders trained to foster local change
• Reinforces the Indigenous-led dissemination of knowledge and legal empowerment

 Official Link