Apply for the Fully Funded OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship 2026–2027

OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship 2026–2027

Application Deadline: 15 April 2026

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is offering a unique, fully funded fellowship opportunity in Geneva, Switzerland, through its Humanitarian Funds Fellowship Programme.

This prestigious programme is designed for professionals working on issues related to torture and contemporary forms of slavery who wish to deepen their expertise within the United Nations human rights system.

Hosted at OHCHR headquarters, the fellowship provides hands-on experience supporting global initiatives that assist survivors of some of the gravest human rights violations.

About the UN Humanitarian Funds

The fellowship is linked to two major UN trust funds managed by OHCHR:

• United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
• United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery

These Funds channel voluntary contributions to civil society organisations that provide direct medical, psychological, legal, and social assistance to survivors. Through grant-making, research, and advocacy, the Funds play a vital role in strengthening global responses to torture and modern forms of slavery.

The fellowship enables professionals already working in these areas to gain insight into how the UN evaluates, manages, and supports such initiatives at the international level.

Fellowship Structure and Duration

The 2026 call for applications offers two fellowship placements within the Humanitarian Funds Secretariat in Geneva:

• 1 August 2026 – 31 July 2027
• 1 January 2027 – 31 December 2027

Each fellowship includes a two-month probationary period. An extension of up to one additional year may be possible, subject to funding availability.

It is important to note that this fellowship does not constitute regular UN employment and does not provide employment rights beyond the fellowship term.

Key Responsibilities

Fellows will contribute to the work of the Humanitarian Funds through a range of substantive and operational tasks, including:

• Evaluating and analysing grant applications from civil society organisations
• Liaising with applicants and providing technical guidance where needed
• Conducting research and contextual analysis on developments related to torture and contemporary slavery
• Reviewing and compiling best practices and lessons learned from funded projects
• Supporting outreach and communications activities, including website updates, promotional materials, and impact stories
• Assisting in the organisation of annual Board of Trustees sessions and public policy discussions
• Contributing to broader OHCHR initiatives as required

Through these responsibilities, fellows gain practical experience in international grant management, human rights research, and UN institutional processes.

Financial Support and Benefits

The fellowship is fully supported to ensure accessibility for qualified candidates. Selected fellows will receive:

• A monthly stipend to cover basic living expenses in Geneva
• Round-trip travel between their country of residence and Switzerland
• Basic health insurance for the duration of the fellowship

This financial package allows fellows to focus fully on professional development and programme engagement.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Professional Experience

• At least two years of experience working on human rights issues related to torture and/or contemporary forms of slavery
• Demonstrated experience supporting survivors
• Project management experience is desirable

Language Skills

• Working-level spoken and written English (required)
• Fluency in French or Spanish (desirable)
• Knowledge of another UN language (Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is an asset

Additional Considerations

• Knowledge of the UN system is desirable
• Applicants must be available for the full fellowship duration
• Individuals with lived experience of torture or contemporary slavery who support other survivors are strongly encouraged to apply
• Candidates affiliated with organisations that have received funding from the Humanitarian Funds are also encouraged

OHCHR is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities can be provided upon request.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit their complete application by 15 April 2026 via email to:
ohchr-unvfvt@un.org

Required documentation includes:

• A fully completed and signed application form
• A Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages)

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to complete a written examination and participate in an interview. Applicants must indicate their availability for one or both fellowship periods.

Why Apply for the OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship?

The OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship offers a rare opportunity to:

• Gain direct experience within the United Nations human rights framework
• Develop expertise in addressing torture and contemporary forms of slavery
• Contribute to global efforts supporting survivors
• Strengthen professional networks within international human rights institutions

For committed human rights professionals seeking meaningful engagement within the UN system, this fellowship represents a significant and career-enhancing opportunity.

Deadline to apply: 15 April 2026.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.