Are you ready to advance human rights and racial justice on a global stage? The Fully Funded United Nations Fellowship 2026 for People of African Descent offers a powerful chance for individuals from the African diaspora to train in Geneva, Switzerland. Hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), this program builds skills to fight racism and promote rights in your community.
What Is the Fellowship Programme?
This intensive training targets people of African descent who work to protect their community’s rights. It happens once a year at the OHCHR in Geneva. Participants learn about international human rights law, UN systems, and tools to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related issues.
The program started in 2011 under the OHCHR Anti-Racial Discrimination Section. It gained support from UN General Assembly resolutions, including A/RES/69/16 and the recent A/RES/79/193, which launched the Second International Decade for People of African Descent from 2025 to 2034. Over 169 fellows from 54 countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and the United States, have joined since then.
Purpose of the Programme
The main goal is to equip participants with skills to protect civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights for people of African descent. Fellows gain tools to align local laws and policies with global standards. They also learn to partner with governments and run awareness campaigns in their home countries.
Who Can Apply?
You must be of African descent and live in the diaspora. Applicants need at least four years of experience in rights related to people of African descent. Submit an official letter from your organization on letterhead that confirms your role.
Candidates must attend the full program and complete pre-online courses. The selection considers gender balance, regional representation, and the human rights situation for people of African descent in your country.
Key Dates and Duration
The Fully Funded United Nations Fellowship 2026 for People of African Descent runs from 9 to 27 November 2026 in Geneva. Expect a few hours of online prep in the two weeks before. The program uses English and Spanish.
The application deadline is 15 May 2026.
How to Apply
Send all documents in one email to [email protected]. Include:
- Your CV.
- A signed and scanned application form (download from the OHCHR site).
- A personal statement up to 500 words on your motivation and plans to use the training.
- The official letter from your organization.
- A copy of your passport.
Limit to five attachments 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.”
Applications go in English or Spanish. Only shortlisted candidates get notified.
Selection Process
OHCHR reviews entries for balance and relevance. Due to high volume, they skip acknowledgments. Check the OHCHR webpage for updates after selection.
What Participants Receive
Each fellow gets a return economy-class ticket to Geneva, basic health insurance, and a stipend for modest lodging and daily costs during the stay.
Inspiration from Former Fellows
Past participants share stories in “Voices of the Decade,” highlighting their work worldwide. These 11 accounts show real impact on recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent. Read them for motivation on applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the United Nations Fellowship for People of African Descent?
It is an intensive training program in Geneva hosted by the OHCHR to help people of African descent learn about human rights law and tools to fight racism in their communities.
Who can apply for the 2026 fellowship?
You must be of African descent living in the diaspora with at least four years of experience in human rights work for people of African descent, and provide a letter from your organization.
What are the key dates for the 2026 program?
The application deadline is 15 May 2026, and the fellowship runs from 9 to 27 November 2026 in Geneva, with some online prep beforehand.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Email your CV, application form, personal statement, organization letter, and passport copy to [email protected] with the exact subject line and file naming rules.
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