Are you of African descent and committed to fighting racial discrimination? The United Nations Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent 2026 offers a fully funded chance to train in human rights in Geneva, Switzerland. Hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), this program builds skills for advocates from around the world.
What is the Fellowship Programme?
This intensive training targets people of African descent living in the diaspora. It runs once a year at the OHCHR in Geneva. Participants learn about international human rights law and UN systems that combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.
The program focuses on issues affecting people of African descent. Fellows get hands-on exposure to global human rights mechanisms. They also practice skills like writing project proposals and giving presentations.
Started in 2011 by the OHCHR Anti-Racial Discrimination Section, it gained support from UN General Assembly resolution A/RES/69/16. It ties into the Second International Decade for People of African Descent (2025-2034), proclaimed by resolution A/RES/79/193.
Purpose and Goals
The main goal is to equip participants with tools to protect civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights of people of African descent back home. Fellows learn how to align local laws and policies with global human rights standards.
They build stronger ties between civil society and governments. The training supports local awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts. By the end, participants can lead change in their communities.
Who Can Apply?
You must be an individual of African descent living in the diaspora. A minimum of four years of work experience in rights related to people of African descent is required. Submit an official letter from an organization focused on these issues or minority rights. The letter must be on official letterhead and confirm your role.
Candidates need to attend the full program. Since 2011, 169 fellows from 54 countries have joined, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, the United States, and many others.
The selection considers gender balance, regional representation, and the human rights situation for people of African descent in applicants’ countries.
Programme Dates and Details
The 2026 fellowship runs from 9 to 27 November in Geneva, Switzerland. It uses English and Spanish. Fellows must complete online courses and assignments in the two weeks before it starts.
The schedule includes various activities. Participants follow it closely to make the most of the time.
Benefits for Participants
OHCHR covers a return economy-class ticket from your home country to Geneva. Fellows receive basic health insurance and a stipend for modest housing and daily expenses during the program.
Beyond logistics, the real value comes from expert training and networking. Past fellows have used these skills to advance human rights work worldwide.
Stories from Former Fellows
The “Voices of the Decade” collection shares 11 stories from past participants. These accounts highlight their efforts to promote rights for people of African descent. The stories inspire others to join the fight for recognition, justice, and development. You can read them for motivation before applying.
Former fellows often describe how the program changed their approach to advocacy. They gained confidence in using UN tools and built global connections.
How to Apply
Send all documents in one email to [email protected]. Include:
- Your curriculum vitae.
- A completed, signed, and scanned application form (available on the OHCHR site).
- A personal statement up to 500 words. Explain your motivation and plans to use the training for people of African descent.
- The official letter from your organization.
- A copy of your passport.
Limit attachments to five or fewer. Use this subject line: “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).
Applications work in English or Spanish. The deadline is 15 May 2026.
Selection Process
OHCHR reviews applications for balance in gender and regions. They factor in the human rights context in your country. Due to high volume, not all get acknowledgments. Only shortlisted candidates hear back by email. Check the OHCHR fellowship webpage for updates on selections.
For full details, visit the official page: OHCHR Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the 2026 UN Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent?
You must be of African descent living in the diaspora with at least four years of experience in rights related to people of African descent, confirmed by an official letter from your organization.
What are the dates and location for the 2026 fellowship?
The program runs from 9 to 27 November 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland, with required online courses in the two weeks before it starts.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Email your CV, application form, personal statement, organization letter, and passport copy to [email protected] by 15 May 2026, using the exact subject line and file names.
What benefits do fellows receive?
OHCHR covers return economy-class flights, basic health insurance, a stipend for housing and daily expenses, plus training and networking opportunities.
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