The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is now accepting applications for the Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2025. Established in 1997 during the first International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People, this comprehensive training program aims to empower indigenous individuals with in-depth knowledge of the UN system and human rights mechanisms, focusing on issues specific to indigenous communities.
About the Program
The Indigenous Fellowship Programme provides a unique opportunity for indigenous people to gain a thorough understanding of how UN institutions and mechanisms address human rights issues, particularly those concerning indigenous peoples.
By equipping participants with this knowledge and expertise, the program enables them to better assist their organizations and communities in protecting and promoting their rights.
The intensive 4-week training takes place in Geneva, coinciding with the annual session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (June/July).
This allows fellows to actively engage with the Mechanism and expand their network. The program is offered in five languages: English, Spanish, French, Russian, and Portuguese.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2025, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Indigenous identity: Candidates must be indigenous. Non-indigenous persons will not be considered, even if they have close ties with indigenous communities or organizations.
- No age restrictions: Age should not limit participation in the program.
- No formal education requirements: Recognizing the socio-economic barriers that often hinder indigenous peoples’ access to formal education, the program does not have formal educational prerequisites.
- Commitment to knowledge-sharing: Candidates must agree to train other indigenous persons upon returning to their communities or organizations.
- Community or organizational support: Candidates should be nominated and supported by their indigenous community or organization. Ideally, the sponsoring entity should have a strong constituency or membership and be representative of the community.
- Language proficiency: Candidates must have a good working knowledge of the language in which the program is conducted.
Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Round-trip economy class airfare from their country of residence to Geneva
- A stipend to cover basic living expenses in Geneva, including modest accommodation, food, and transportation
- Basic health insurance for the duration of the program
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit a fully completed application form, including Parts I and II, signed and sent by regular post to:
Mr. Morse Caoagas Flores
Coordinator, Indigenous Fellowship Programme
Indigenous Peoples and Minorities Section
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
48, Avenue Giuseppe-Motta, Office 2-05
CH-1211 Geneva 10
SwitzerlandScanned applications are also accepted and can be emailed to [email protected] with a copy to [email protected].
Applications must be accompanied by an official recommendation letter from the nominating indigenous organization or community.
Click here to apply for the Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2025.
Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is August 31, 2024. Due to the high volume of applications, only pre-selected candidates will be contacted.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, skills, and networks to amplify your community’s voice and promote indigenous rights on a global scale.
Apply now and become part of a growing community of indigenous leaders and advocates!For more information about the Indigenous Fellowship Programme, please visit the OHCHR website.
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