Switzerland OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

Description

Are you an indigenous rights advocate seeking to deepen your understanding of international human rights mechanisms? The United Nations OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2026 is now open for applications. This fully funded UN fellowship provides a unique opportunity for indigenous individuals to gain training in the UN system, with a focus on indigenous peoples’ rights and human rights protection.

What is the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program?

Launched in 1997 by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) aims to empower indigenous leaders and activists by offering hands-on training on the UN human rights system. The program enables fellows to become more effective advocates for their communities and better equipped to promote and protect indigenous rights globally.

Languages of Training:

1. English
2. Spanish
3. French
4. Portuguese

All fellows from these language groups are trained together with simultaneous interpretation, creating a truly multilingual and multicultural experience.

Degree Level

Switzerland OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program 2026 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Fellowship level programs at Switzerland Universities.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

Benefits

1. Funding: Fully funded (includes airfare, accommodation allowance, and basic health insurance)

The program is timed to coincide with the UN Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, giving participants the chance to engage directly with UN bodies and fellow human rights defenders.

Eligible Nationalities

Open to indigenous applicants of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the 2026 Indigenous Fellowship Program, applicants must:

1. Be indigenous (applications from non-indigenous individuals will not be considered)
2. Be nominated and supported by an indigenous organization or community
3. Have a good working knowledge of one of the four programme languages
4. Be committed to training other indigenous persons upon return
5. Be actively involved in indigenous advocacy or community work

Diverse applicants, including indigenous women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities, are strongly encouraged to apply. There are no restrictions based on age or level of formal education.

Application Procedure

How to Apply

Applicants must complete both Part I and Part II of the online application form. An official recommendation letter from the nominating indigenous organization or community must also be uploaded.

1. Apply here: OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Application Form
2. Deadline: 15 September 2025

Only fully completed applications will be considered. Early submission is strongly encouraged.

Selection Process

The selection process is designed to ensure gender, regional, and community diversity. It includes:

1. Pre-selection by former fellows (15–20 per language group)
2. Interviews with shortlisted applicants
3. Final review by the OHCHR advisory group

Only pre-selected candidates will be contacted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Do I need formal education to apply for the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship?

No, formal education is not required. The program recognizes the barriers many indigenous people face and values lived experience and community involvement.

Q2: Can I apply without a recommendation letter from my community or organization?

No, all applicants must be nominated and supported by an indigenous community or organization to be eligible.

Q3: Is the fellowship available in multiple languages?

Yes, training is conducted in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, with simultaneous interpretation to facilitate communication and understanding.