Apply for the UNHCR Fellowship Program 2026, a fully funded opportunity designed to train professionals in human rights, refugee protection, and humanitarian advocacy. Gain hands-on experience with the UN system through intensive fellowships offered by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Introduction
The UNHCR Fellowship Program 2026, administered through the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), offers a transformative opportunity for early- and mid-career professionals working in the fields of human rights, refugee protection, and social justice.
These fully funded fellowship programmes aim to strengthen the capacity of individuals and organizations working to advance equality, defend the rights of refugees and minorities, and contribute to humanitarian action globally.
Each fellowship provides intensive training, mentorship, and field experience with the UN human rights mechanisms — empowering participants to make a tangible impact in their communities and organizations.
About the UNHCR Fellowship Program 2026
The UNHCR and OHCHR fellowship programmes are designed to give participants first-hand exposure to the work of the United Nations, enhancing their understanding of international human rights law, refugee rights, and humanitarian mechanisms.
Participants gain practical knowledge on:
- The structure and functioning of UN human rights bodies
- Treaty-based and charter-based mechanisms
- Advocacy and reporting procedures
- Project design and monitoring in human rights
- Networking and partnership-building within the global UN system
The overall goal is to equip professionals from underrepresented communities and developing countries with the skills and resources needed to promote human rights and sustainable social change.
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Available Fellowship Tracks for 2026
1. Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent
A three-week comprehensive human rights training for people of African descent engaged in promoting equality and justice.
Recipients: People of African descent and diaspora members working on racial justice, advocacy, or anti-discrimination.
Duration: 3 weeks
Focus Areas:
- Racial justice
- International human rights law
- Community leadership and policy influence
2. Indigenous Fellowship Programme
This fellowship strengthens the capacity of indigenous representatives to engage with UN mechanisms that address indigenous issues and rights.
Recipients: Indigenous peoples and representatives advocating for indigenous rights.
Duration: 4 weeks
Focus Areas:
- Indigenous self-determination
- Cultural and land rights
- UN mechanisms for indigenous issues
3. Fellowship for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
This fellowship supports government officials from LDCs and SIDS to engage with the Human Rights Council and learn about international policy processes.
Recipients: Government officials from LDCs/SIDS.
Duration: 3 months
Focus Areas:
- UN Human Rights Council processes
- Human rights-based governance
- International advocacy and diplomacy
4. Minorities Fellowship Programme
This comprehensive programme empowers minority rights defenders working with ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority groups to engage effectively with international human rights institutions.
Recipients: Minority rights advocates, community organizers, or NGO representatives.
Duration: 4–6 weeks
Focus Areas:
- Minority rights and advocacy
- Protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups
- Intercultural communication and negotiation
5. OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship
This long-term fellowship offers civil society leaders and NGO staff practical experience managing grants and collaborating with the UN Fund for Victims of Torture and the Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery.
Recipients: Members of human rights organizations working on issues related to torture and modern slavery.
Duration: Up to 6 months
Focus Areas:
- Fund management
- Victims’ rights
- Documentation and reporting to the UN
6. Fellowship for Staff of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs)
This fellowship strengthens the institutional capacity of staff members of accredited National Human Rights Institutions (“A” status).
Recipients: NHRI staff with “A” status accreditation.
Duration: 3 months
Focus Areas:
- Monitoring compliance with international human rights law
- Reporting to UN treaty bodies
- Institutional strengthening and governance
7. Fellowship for Staff of Regional Human Rights Mechanisms
This programme offers training to staff of regional human rights bodies, enhancing coordination between regional and international mechanisms.
Recipients: Staff of regional human rights organizations (e.g., African Commission, Inter-American Commission).
Duration: 3 months
Focus Areas:
- Cooperation between regional and international systems
- Case documentation and reporting
- Policy harmonization
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Fellowship Benefits
All selected fellows receive comprehensive funding to ensure equal access, regardless of background or financial situation.
Fully Funded Support Includes:
- Full tuition and training materials
- Round-trip travel to Geneva or assigned location
- Accommodation during the training period
- Daily subsistence allowance (DSA)
- Visa and health insurance assistance
Fellows also receive:
- Mentorship from UN human rights experts
- Certificates of completion
- Opportunities for future collaboration with UN mechanisms
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility varies by programme, but in general, applicants must:
- Be from one of the designated eligible groups or countries (e.g., LDCs, SIDS, minorities, indigenous peoples).
- Demonstrate a commitment to human rights or humanitarian work.
- Possess relevant experience or affiliation with a civil society organization, community, or government body.
- Have proficiency in English, and ideally knowledge of another UN language (French or Spanish preferred).
- Be available to participate in the full duration of the fellowship.
Application Process
Applications for the UNHCR/OHCHR Fellowship Programmes 2026 are submitted online via the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
How to Apply:
- Visit the official fellowship page: OHCHR Fellowship Programmes.
- Select the fellowship programme that fits your profile (e.g., African Descent, Indigenous, Minorities).
- Complete the online application form and upload the required documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
- Letter of Recommendation
- Proof of Community or Organizational Affiliation
- Copy of Passport (for verification)
- Submit your completed application before the respective deadline for your chosen fellowship.
Note: Deadlines vary depending on the specific fellowship track (typically between January and April 2026).
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Key Dates for 2026
| Fellowship Track | Application Deadline | Duration | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| People of African Descent | January 2026 | 3 weeks | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Indigenous Fellowship | February 2026 | 4 weeks | Geneva, Switzerland |
| LDCs/SIDS | March 2026 | 3 months | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Minorities Fellowship | April 2026 | 6 weeks | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Humanitarian Funds Fellowship | Ongoing | 6 months | Geneva, Switzerland |
| NHRIs Fellowship | Rolling | 3 months | Geneva, Switzerland |
Alumni Impact
Graduates of the UNHCR and OHCHR fellowship programmes have gone on to become:
- UN advisers, NGO directors, and human rights commissioners.
- Influential voices in refugee policy, climate justice, and minority rights.
- Trainers and advocates leading change at community, national, and global levels.
These fellowships have proven to be career-defining opportunities that empower individuals to bridge local advocacy with global impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are these fellowships paid?
Yes. All fellowships under the OHCHR system are fully funded, covering travel, accommodation, and stipends.
2. Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the specific programme — indigenous representatives, minority rights defenders, NGO staff, or government officials from LDCs/SIDS may apply.
3. Where do the fellowships take place?
Most programmes are held at the UN Headquarters in Geneva, with some offering hybrid or online components.
4. Do I need UN experience to apply?
No. Applicants from grassroots organizations and local initiatives are encouraged to apply.
5. Will the fellowship lead to a job with the UN?
While the fellowship is not a job placement, it significantly strengthens your profile for future UN or NGO roles.
6. What languages are required?
Working knowledge of English is mandatory; French and Spanish are highly desirable.
Final Thoughts
The UNHCR Fellowship Program 2026 offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for professionals from diverse backgrounds to engage with the United Nations human rights system and advance their careers in humanitarian and social justice work.
Whether you’re an indigenous leader, minority rights defender, refugee advocate, or civil society professional, these fellowships will give you the tools, exposure, and network needed to create lasting change.
Apply today and join a global community of advocates working to protect dignity, equality, and human rights for all.
Apply Now: https://www.ohchr.org/en/fellowships
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