2026 OHCHR Fellowship for People of African Descent: Fully Funded Training in Geneva
Are you a person of African descent working to promote human rights? The United Nations OHCHR Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent 2026 offers a funded chance to train in Geneva. This program helps participants from the diaspora build skills in fighting racism and discrimination.
What the Fellowship Offers
The fellowship is an intensive human rights training held once a year at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva. It focuses on people of African descent who promote their community’s rights. Participants learn about international human rights law, the UN system, and tools to combat racism, xenophobia, and related issues.
You will get hands-on exposure to UN mechanisms. The program also teaches how to create project proposals and give strong presentations. It strengthens your ability to engage with global human rights efforts.
Key Benefits
Each selected fellow receives practical support. This includes a return economy-class ticket from your home country to Geneva. You also get basic health insurance and a stipend for modest housing and daily expenses during the program.
These benefits make the fellowship fully funded. They allow you to focus on learning without financial stress.
Who Can Apply
To qualify, you must be of African descent and live in the diaspora. You need at least four years of work experience in rights related to people of African descent. An official letter from your organization is required. It must be on letterhead and confirm your role in work on African descent or minority rights.
You must attend the full program. Selected fellows join various activities and follow the schedule closely.
How to Submit Your Application
Applications are open in English or Spanish. Send one email to the OHCHR address with these items:
- Your curriculum vitae.
- A signed and scanned application form (download from the OHCHR site).
- A personal statement up to 500 words. Explain your motivation and how you will use the knowledge to advance rights for people of African descent.
- The official letter from your organization.
- A copy of your passport.
Limit attachments to five or fewer. Use this email subject: “Application for the 2026 Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent.” Name files like: LAST NAME First name – Type of document (e.g., SMITH Jacqueline – Application form.doc).
The deadline is May 15, 2026. For full details, check the official OHCHR page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the OHCHR Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent?
You must be of African descent living in the diaspora, have at least four years of experience in rights related to people of African descent, and provide an official letter from your organization confirming your role.
What benefits does the fellowship provide?
Selected fellows get a return economy-class ticket to Geneva, basic health insurance, and a stipend for housing and daily expenses, making it fully funded so you can focus on training.
What does the training cover?
The program offers intensive training on international human rights law, UN mechanisms, tools to fight racism and xenophobia, project proposals, and presentation skills.
How and when do I apply for the 2026 fellowship?
Submit one email in English or Spanish with your CV, signed application form, 500-word personal statement, organization letter, and passport copy by May 15, 2026, using the specified subject and file names.