Fully Funded UN Fellowship 2026 in Geneva for People of African Descent (Apply Before May 15)

If you are passionate about human rights, advocacy, and social impact, this is a global opportunity you shouldn’t miss.

The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has officially opened applications for the Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent 2026—a prestigious, fully funded training in Geneva, Switzerland.

About the Fellowship

The Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent is a 3-week intensive human rights training designed for individuals actively working to promote the rights of people of African descent. 

📍 Location: Geneva, Switzerland

📅 Programme Dates: 9 – 27 November 2026

🌐 Languages: English & Spanish

⏳ Application Deadline: 15 May 2026

The programme also includes preparatory online coursework before the in-person training begins. 

What This Fellowship Offers

This is not just a training—it’s a career-transforming global exposure opportunity.

Participants will:

-Gain deep knowledge of international human rights law

-Learn how the UN human rights system works

-Build skills in advocacy, public speaking, and policy development

-Engage directly with UN experts and global stakeholders

-Develop tools to combat racism, discrimination, and inequality 

 Is It Fully Funded?

Yes — selected fellows receive:

✈️ Return economy-class flight to Geneva

🏥 Basic health insurance

🏠 Stipend for accommodation and living expenses 

This makes it highly accessible for qualified candidates globally.

 Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, you must:

-Be a person of African descent living in the diaspora

-Have at least 4 years of experience in:

*Human rights

*Advocacy

*Community work or related fields

*Be actively working on issues affecting people of African descent

*Be available for the full duration of the programme 

👉 This is not for beginners—it’s designed for people already creating impact.

What You’ll Learn

The fellowship focuses on key global issues such as:

-Racism and racial discrimination

-Xenophobia and social exclusion

-Policy development and legal frameworks

-Community advocacy strategies

-It aligns with the global movement under the International Decade for People of African Descent, which promotes justice, recognition, and development for African-descendant communities worldwide. 

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit ALL documents in one email:

-Curriculum Vitae (CV)

-Completed application form

-Personal statement (max 500 words)

-Official recommendation letter from an organization

-Copy of passport 

📌 Important:

Do NOT send more than 5 attachments

Use the correct subject line:

Why You Should Apply

Since its launch, the programme has trained fellows from over 50 countries, building a strong network of global changemakers. 

This fellowship helps you:

-Gain international recognition

-Expand your professional network

-Strengthen your voice as an advocate

-Bring global knowledge back to your community

If you are serious about scaling your impact beyond your local environment, this fellowship gives you the platform, exposure, and credibility to do just that.

But here’s the truth:

👉 This is competitive. Only strong, impact-driven applicants get selected.

So your application must clearly show:

Your work

Your impact

Your vision after the fellowship

Apply using the link below 👇🏼 

UN HUMAN RIGHT FELLOWSHIP