The OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for indigenous individuals worldwide to enhance their understanding of international human rights systems while actively engaging with the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. This fully funded program equips participants with the tools to promote and defend indigenous rights on a global scale and in their home communities.
Organized by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the fellowship includes a four-week immersive training experience in Geneva. Selected fellows receive in-depth training on UN human rights mechanisms, particularly those concerning indigenous issues, and build the knowledge and skills needed to advocate effectively at local, national, and international levels.
OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2026 Details
- Program Name: OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026
- Host Organization: United Nations OHCHR
- Fellowship Duration: 4 Weeks (June/July)
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligibility: Indigenous individuals globally
- Languages Offered: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese
- Application Deadline: 15 September 2025
What Is the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship?
Launched in 1997, the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) was created during the first International Decade of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. Its mission is to empower indigenous leaders by deepening their understanding of human rights and the functioning of the UN system, particularly the mechanisms that address indigenous affairs.
This highly respected fellowship brings together selected individuals from across the world to participate in an intensive four-week course, held alongside the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) session. Fellows are provided with simultaneous interpretation in their preferred language among the four available options.
Benefits:
Participants selected for the 2026 OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship will receive:
- Fully funded international round-trip airfare to Geneva
- Living expenses for the full duration of the program
- Basic health insurance
- Access to high-level UN events and human rights mechanisms
- Engagement with leading experts and advocates in the field
Also Check: United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 in the USA (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is designed for indigenous individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Must be indigenous (non-indigenous individuals are not eligible, even if closely affiliated with indigenous groups)
- All age groups are encouraged to apply
- No formal academic degree is required; the program values lived experience and commitment to community
- Applicants should be actively engaged in an indigenous organization or community
- Preference is given to applicants sponsored by organizations with a strong membership base
- Women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and people with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply
- Must be proficient in one of the following languages: English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese
- Must commit to sharing their knowledge with their community upon returning
How to Apply for OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship ?
To apply for the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2026, follow these steps:
- Complete Part I and Part II of the official application form.
- Include a recommendation letter from your nominating indigenous organization or community.
- Ensure all materials are typed or word-processed (handwritten applications will not be accepted).
- Submit the full application online before 15 September 2025.
- Only pre-selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.
