Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent ·United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Overview

This program offers the 2026 Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent, which takes place from 9 to 27 November 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. The fellowship is designed to strengthen the capacity of individuals of African descent actively engaged in promoting and protecting their rights worldwide.

Eligibility

Individuals of African descent living in the diaspora who are actively involved in promoting the rights of people of African descent can apply. Applicants must have at least four years of professional experience related to advocacy, human rights, community development, or minority rights issues. They must also submit an official nomination or certification letter from an organization working on minority rights, confirming their role within the organization.

Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

• A return economy-class air ticket to Geneva
• Basic health insurance coverage
• A stipend to cover accommodation and living expenses during the programme

How to Apply

Applicants must submit all required documents in a single email to ohchr-africandescentfellowship@un.org. Required materials include:

• A Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A completed, signed, and scanned application form
• A personal statement (max 500 words) explaining motivation and intended use of the fellowship experience
• An official organizational support letter
• A copy of the applicant’s passport

The email subject line must read: “Application for the 2026 Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent.”

Deadline

Applications close on 15 May 2026.