OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 – Switzerland

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

Fully Funded Human Rights Training for Indigenous Leaders

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is now accepting applications for the Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 in Switzerland. This fully funded program empowers indigenous leaders and activists from around the world by providing advanced training in human rights, UN mechanisms, and advocacy tools for indigenous peoples’ rights.

📌 Application Deadline: 15 September 2025
📍 Location: Switzerland
📅 Program Duration: 2026 (Exact dates to be announced)

---

About the Fellowship

Established in 1997, the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program builds the capacity of indigenous human rights defenders through intensive, hands-on training. The program coincides with the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP), allowing participants to engage directly with UN officials, policymakers, and experts.

---

Fellowship Objectives

• Strengthen knowledge of UN human rights systems and mechanisms.

• Equip indigenous leaders with practical advocacy tools.

• Foster cross-cultural dialogue among indigenous activists worldwide.

• Promote the rights and visibility of indigenous peoples on a global platform.

---

Languages of Instruction

The program is conducted in four official languages, with simultaneous interpretation provided:

• English

• French

• Spanish

• Portuguese

---

Focus Areas

This is a non-degree professional training program, focusing on:

• Human Rights Principles

• Indigenous Peoples’ Rights

• International Legal Frameworks

• Advocacy and UN Engagement Tools

---

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support, including:

• ✈️ Round-trip international airfare

• 🏨 Accommodation and daily living allowance

• 🏥 Basic health insurance

• 🎓 Full training program coverage

• 🌐 Participation in UN EMRIP sessions

• 🤝 Networking with global human rights defenders and policymakers

---

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Identify as Indigenous: Recognition by an indigenous community is required.

• Be Nominated: Submit a recommendation letter from an indigenous organization or community.

• Language Proficiency: Have working knowledge of English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese.

• Active Advocacy: Be engaged in indigenous rights or community work.

• Commit to Sharing Knowledge: Train others in their community after the fellowship.

🌍 Encouraged Applicants: Indigenous women, LGBTQI+ persons, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
📌 No age limit or formal degree required.

---

Eligible Nationalities

Open to indigenous individuals from all countries.

---

Application Process

📧 How to Apply:

• Complete the online application form (Parts I & II).

• Submit a recommendation letter from your nominating indigenous community or organization.

⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be considered.

🔗 Apply here: OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Application Form

Deadline: 15 September 2025

---

Selection Process

The process ensures fair representation by gender, region, and indigenous community:

1. Initial Screening: Review by past fellows (15–20 per language group).

2. Shortlisting & Interviews: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

3. Final Selection: By the OHCHR advisory board, based on merit and impact potential.

---

Key Dates

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply?
Any indigenous individual supported by their community and active in advocacy work.

2. Is the program open to non-indigenous applicants?
No. Only those recognized as indigenous are eligible.

3. Do I need a university degree?
No. Commitment and advocacy experience are more important than formal education.

4. Which languages are accepted?
English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

5. Is there an age limit?
No. The program welcomes activists of all ages.

6. Are LGBTQI+ and disabled indigenous persons encouraged to apply?
Yes. Inclusivity is a key priority.

7. How long does the program last?
Exact dates will be confirmed, but it typically runs for several weeks.

8. Is funding fully covered?
Yes. Airfare, accommodation, health insurance, and a living allowance are provided.

9. Can I apply without an organizational nomination?
No. A community endorsement is mandatory.

10. When will I be notified if selected?
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the first review stage.

---

⚡ Empower your community, shape global policy, and become a stronger advocate for indigenous rights. Apply today for the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026.

APPLY HERE

CLICK HERE TO COMMENT ON THIS POST