OHCHR Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026: Fully Funded in Geneva

OHCHR Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026 (Fully Funded, Geneva): Apply by 31 January

The OHCHR Minorities Fellowship Programme (MFP) 2026 is a fully funded international human rights fellowship organized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Launched in 2005, this prestigious programme is designed for human rights defenders belonging to national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority communities.

The fellowship will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, and offers participants in-depth exposure to the United Nations system, international human rights mechanisms, and global advocacy related to minority rights.

About the OHCHR Minorities Fellowship Programme

The Minorities Fellowship Programme is OHCHR’s most comprehensive training programme for minority rights defenders worldwide. By the end of the programme, selected fellows gain strong working knowledge of international human rights law, UN institutions, and minority protection mechanisms.

Beyond technical learning, the programme provides a unique opportunity to build global networks with fellow activists, UN experts, and Geneva-based civil society organizations. Fellows are expected to return to their communities after the programme and train others, strengthening local advocacy for minority rights.

Fellowship Location, Language, and Duration

The 2026 edition of the programme will be conducted only in English and will take place in Geneva, Switzerland. The fellowship usually runs for one month in November, and includes a one-week preparatory training in Strasbourg, France.

Financial Support and Benefits

The OHCHR Minorities Fellowship Programme is fully funded. Selected fellows receive a return economy-class airfare from their country of residence to Geneva, basic health insurance for the duration of the programme, and a monthly stipend to cover modest accommodation and living expenses.

This funding ensures that financial limitations do not prevent participation by deserving minority rights defenders.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must belong to a national, ethnic, linguistic, or religious minority group. Individuals who do not belong to a minority group are not eligible, even if they work closely with minority communities or organizations.

Apply at https://survey.ohchr.org/774785?lang=en

Applicants from Indigenous communities should not apply to this programme and must instead apply to the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme, which follows a separate process.

Formal education is not mandatory, as long as the applicant can demonstrate relevant experience in minority or human rights work. Candidates must have a good working knowledge of English and should be willing and able to train others in their community or organization after completing the fellowship.

Applicants must be nominated and supported by their organization or community, preferably one that represents minority interests and is led by members of minority groups.

Selection Process

Selection is carried out by an advisory group of OHCHR staff, with attention to gender balance, regional diversity, and the human rights situation of the applicant’s country and minority community.

Due to the high number of applications received every year, only shortlisted and selected candidates will be contacted.

How to Apply

Application forms are available in English, Russian, and Arabic, but the 2026 programme itself will be conducted only in English. Applicants must complete both Part I and Part II of the application form and upload an official recommendation letter from the nominating organization or community.

Only complete applications submitted through the official online system will be considered.

📅 Application Deadline: 31 January 2026, 23:59 (Geneva time)

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well before the deadline.

Contact Information

For questions related to the fellowship, applicants may contact:
📧 ohchr-fellowship@un.org

Why You Should Apply

The OHCHR Minorities Fellowship Programme is a rare opportunity for minority rights defenders to receive UN-level training, gain international exposure, and strengthen advocacy skills that directly benefit their communities. With full financial support and access to global networks, the fellowship empowers participants to become stronger voices for minority rights at national and international levels.

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