The UNHCR Humanitarian Fellowship 2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for young professionals to gain practical, hands-on experience in human rights, focusing on survivors of contemporary forms of slavery and torture. Hosted by the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland, this fellowship provides a platform to contribute to global humanitarian initiatives while building professional skills within the UN system.
This fellowship is ideal for candidates with a minimum of two years of experience working on human rights issues, particularly in organizations providing services to survivors of slavery or torture. Fellows will engage in grant evaluation, project management, outreach, research, and capacity-building initiatives that support global human rights objectives.
About the UNHCR Humanitarian Fellowship
The UNHCR Humanitarian Fellowship is part of the UN Humanitarian Funds, including:
- United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery
- United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
The fellowship is designed to:
- Expand knowledge and skills on addressing human rights violations.
- Provide working-level experience within the United Nations system.
- Enable fellows to evaluate and manage grants for survivors of slavery and torture.
- Promote international collaboration and professional development in human rights advocacy.
Fellowship Roles and Responsibilities
Fellows will contribute to:
- Grant Evaluation: Assess project applications and provide technical support to applicant organizations.
- Research & Analysis: Conduct substantive research on slavery and torture, reviewing global developments.
- Best Practices Documentation: Compile information on lessons learned from grantees.
- Outreach & Communications: Prepare materials to increase the visibility of the Funds, including website updates, brochures, and social media content.
- Event Coordination: Assist in organizing annual sessions of the Funds’ Boards of Trustees, including public events and policy discussions.
- Cross-Office Support: Contribute to broader OHCHR initiatives as needed.
Fellowship Duration and Entitlements
- Duration: Two positions are available:
- 01 August 2026 – 31 July 2027
- 01 January 2027 – 31 December 2027
- Extension: Up to one additional year may be possible, depending on funding availability.
- Entitlements:
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses in Geneva.
- Return ticket from/to country of residence.
- Basic health insurance.
Note: This is a fellowship, not a regular UN employment position.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Experience:
- At least two years working on human rights related to slavery and/or torture.
- Experience supporting survivors of slavery or torture.
- Project management experience is desirable.
- Languages:
- Working level of spoken and written English required.
- Fluency in French or Spanish is desirable.
- Knowledge of Arabic, Chinese, or Russian is a plus.
- Other Qualifications:
- Familiarity with the UN system is desirable.
- Individuals with lived experience supporting survivors are strongly encouraged.
- Candidates affiliated with organizations funded by the Humanitarian Funds are encouraged to apply.
- Must be available for the full fellowship duration.
Application and Selection Process
- Submit a complete application via e-mail to ohchr-unvfvt@un.org by April 15, 2026.
- Include:
- Fully completed and signed application form.
- Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages).
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for:
- Written examination.
- Interview process.
- Selection is based on professional experience, expertise in human rights, and commitment to the UN mission.
- Confirm availability for one or both fellowship periods in your application.
Why Apply
The UNHCR Humanitarian Fellowship 2027 offers:
- Direct exposure to human rights project management and grant evaluation.
- Experience working with survivors of slavery and torture.
- Professional development within the United Nations Human Rights Office.
- Opportunity to contribute to global humanitarian initiatives and advocacy.
- Networking with professionals and experts in human rights worldwide.
This fellowship is ideal for those seeking a career in human rights, humanitarian work, or international policy while making a tangible difference for vulnerable populations.
Summary Table
| Program | UNHCR Humanitarian Fellowship 2027 |
|---|---|
| Organization | United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) |
| Fellowship Type | Humanitarian Fellowship |
| Duration | 1 year (Aug 2026–Jul 2027 or Jan–Dec 2027) |
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Eligible Applicants | Young professionals with 2+ years experience in human rights |
| Focus Areas | Contemporary forms of slavery, torture, grant evaluation, project management |
| Language Requirements | English (required), French/Spanish desirable |
| Entitlements | Monthly stipend, return travel, basic health insurance |
| Application Deadline | 15 April 2026 |
| Application Method | Email submission to ohchr-unvfvt@un.org |
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