Are you of African descent and committed to fighting racial discrimination? The Fully Funded United Nations Fellowship 2026 for People of African Descent offers a chance to train in human rights at the highest level. Hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland, this program builds skills for real change in your community.
What is the Fellowship Programme?
This intensive training targets people of African descent from around the world. It runs once a year at OHCHR in Geneva. Participants learn about international human rights law, the UN system, and ways to fight racism, xenophobia, and related issues.
The program gives hands-on exposure to global human rights tools. Fellows also practice writing project proposals and giving presentations. Started in 2011, it now supports the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, from 2025 to 2034.
Purpose of the Programme
The main goal is to help fellows protect civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights for people of African descent. They gain tools to push for laws and policies that match UN standards. Fellows also learn to work with governments and run local awareness campaigns.
Past fellows have shared their stories in “Voices of the Decade.” These 11 accounts show how the training sparked action worldwide. Since 2011, 169 people from 54 countries have joined, including from the US, Brazil, Canada, and Europe.
Who Can Apply?
You must be of African descent and live in the diaspora. Applicants need at least four years of experience in rights for people of African descent. Submit an official letter from your organization on letterhead to prove your role.
Candidates must attend the full program and handle pre-online courses. Gender balance, regional representation, and human rights needs in your country guide selection.
Dates and Duration
The fellowship runs from 9 to 27 November 2026 in Geneva. Expect a few hours of online prep in the two weeks before. It uses English and Spanish.
How to Apply
Send one email to [email protected]. Include these in no more than five attachments:
- Your CV.
- Signed and scanned application form.
- Personal statement (max 500 words) on your motivation and plans to use the training.
- Official letter from your organization.
- Passport copy.
Use this subject: “Application for the 2026 Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent.” Name files like “LASTNAME Firstname – Type of document.” Deadline is 15 May 2026.
Selection Process
OHCHR picks fellows based on balance and need. They get many applications, so no receipts are sent. Only shortlisted people hear back by email. Check the OHCHR webpage for updates.
What Participants Receive
Each fellow gets an economy return flight to Geneva, basic health insurance, and a stipend for lodging and daily costs. This covers the full stay. For full details, visit the official OHCHR page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent?
It is an intensive training program in Geneva hosted by OHCHR that teaches international human rights law and skills to fight racism for people of African descent.
Who can apply for the 2026 fellowship?
Applicants must be of African descent living in the diaspora with at least four years of experience in human rights work, proven by an official letter from their organization.
What are the dates and duration of the fellowship?
The program runs from November 9 to 27, 2026, in Geneva, with some online prep in the two weeks before.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Email your CV, application form, personal statement, organization letter, and passport copy to [email protected] by May 15, 2026, using the specified subject line and file naming.