Applications are now open for the UN OHCHR Fellowship Program 2025 in Switzerland — a prestigious, fully funded fellowship designed exclusively for individuals of African descent living outside Africa. This immersive opportunity provides a deep understanding of the United Nations human rights system, offering valuable training in international human rights law, advocacy, and project development.
Hosted by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, this program is part of the UN’s International Decade for People of African Descent initiative. Over the span of three weeks from 10 November to 28 November 2025 selected fellows will engage in interactive sessions, gain practical experience, and network with global human rights advocates.
UN OHCHR Fellowship Program 2025 Overview
- Host Organization: United Nations OHCHR
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Fellowship Duration: 3 weeks (10 Nov – 28 Nov 2025)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Participants: Individuals of African descent living outside Africa
- Application Deadline: 30 June 2025
What the Fellowship Covers
This is a comprehensive financial support package that includes:
- Return airfare (economy class) to Geneva, Switzerland
- Basic health insurance for the fellowship period
- Monthly stipend to cover accommodation and living expenses
- Direct training on human rights mechanisms, anti-discrimination frameworks, and international law
- Opportunities for hands-on learning through project proposal writing and public speaking
- Networking with international human rights experts and organizations
Core Objectives of the UN OHCHR Fellowship
This fellowship aims to:
- Strengthen understanding of the UN human rights framework
- Enhance knowledge of global efforts to combat racism, xenophobia, and intolerance
- Equip participants with practical advocacy and legal skills
- Promote the inclusion of African descent perspectives in international policymaking
- Encourage policy influence at national and international levels
- Foster civil society engagement with government institutions
- Support community-based human rights initiatives
Also Check: Poland Government Stefan Banach Scholarship 2025/26 (Fully Funded) – Study in Europe for Free
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2025 UN OHCHR Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be of African descent and reside outside the African continent
- Have at least four years of work experience in human rights or related fields
- Demonstrate active involvement in advancing the rights of people of African descent
- Be proficient in English (French or Spanish also accepted for the application)
- Be available for the entire program duration
- Have the ability to obtain a Schengen visa for Switzerland
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following five documents:
- Completed application form (available in English, French, or Spanish)
- Personal statement outlining motivation and objectives
- Updated CV/resume in English
- Copy of a valid passport
- Proof of relevant work experience (if not already included in the CV)
Application Process
To apply for the UN OHCHR Fellowship 2025, follow these steps:
- Prepare all five documents as outlined above.
- Email the complete set of attachments to [email protected]
- Use “Application for the 2025 Fellowship Program for People of African Descent” as the email subject line.
- Ensure the email includes no more than five attachments.
- Submit your application before 30 June 2025.
- Wait for confirmation of receipt from the OHCHR team.
