United Nations OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded in Switzerland)

Are you an indigenous advocate passionate about human rights and international justice? The United Nations OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 is now accepting applications. This prestigious, fully funded training program offers indigenous individuals a unique opportunity to engage with the UN human rights system and deepen their understanding of indigenous peoples’ rights.

Application Deadline: 15 September 2025

About the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme

Established in 1997 by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) is designed to empower indigenous activists and community leaders. The program provides hands-on training on UN human rights mechanisms, advocacy strategies, and tools to defend and promote indigenous rights globally.

Key Goals:

• Strengthen the capacity of indigenous leaders to engage with the UN

• Promote effective human rights advocacy

• Foster global collaboration among indigenous communities

Training Languages

The fellowship is conducted in four languages, with simultaneous interpretation, making it an inclusive and cross-cultural experience:

• English

• Spanish

• French

• Portuguese

Fellows across all language groups train together in Geneva, Switzerland, encouraging knowledge exchange in a multicultural setting.

Fellowship Level

This opportunity is open to indigenous individuals and does not require formal academic degrees. It is ideal for community leaders, advocates, and human rights defenders who want to gain practical experience in international systems.

Eligible Fields of Study

Open to all subjects relevant to human rights, indigenous studies, international law, and community development.

Fellowship Benefits

Participants receive full financial support, which includes:

• Round-trip airfare to Switzerland

• Accommodation allowance

• Basic health insurance

• Participation in the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

• Networking opportunities with UN experts and global activists

Who Can Apply?

The OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program is open to indigenous applicants from all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must:

• Identify as indigenous

• Be nominated and supported by an indigenous community or organization

• Have working knowledge of English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese

• Be actively engaged in indigenous advocacy or community-based work

• Show commitment to sharing knowledge with their community after the program

Encouraged to apply:

• Indigenous women

• LGBTQI+ individuals

• Persons with disabilities

• Applicants from underrepresented regions

How to Apply

Application Process:

1. Complete Part I and Part II of the online application form

2. Upload an official nomination letter from your indigenous organization or community

Apply here: OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Application Form

Deadline: 15 September 2025
Only complete applications submitted on time will be considered. Early applications are recommended.

Selection Process

The selection procedure ensures regional, gender, and community diversity and includes:

• Pre-selection by former fellows (15–20 candidates per language group)

• Interviews with shortlisted applicants

• Final selection by the OHCHR advisory board

Why Apply?

• Gain first-hand experience with UN human rights mechanisms

• Strengthen your advocacy skills and expand your international network

• Contribute to meaningful change in your community and beyond

• Join a global movement of indigenous leaders working for justice and equality

Apply Here