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UN OHCHR Fellowship Program 2026 | Fully Funded Trip to Switzerland

Last updated Apr 20, 2026

Deadline

2026-05-15

Country

Switzerland

Level

fellowship

Organization

Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Field

Human Rights, Law, Social Sciences, Political Science

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The UN OHCHR Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent is an intensive human rights training program held in Geneva, Switzerland. It aims to empower individuals of African descent to advocate for human rights and combat racial discrimination.

Coverage

This is a fully funded fellowship. It covers economy-class return airfare, basic health insurance, and a stipend to cover accommodation and living expenses during the program duration (November 9 to November 27, 2026).

Eligibility

Applicants must be of African descent. While the program is open to those in the diaspora, Ethiopian citizens of African descent are eligible to apply.

Requirements

Applicants must have at least 4 years of work experience related to the rights of people of African descent. Proficiency in English, French, or Spanish is required. You must be able to obtain a visa for Switzerland and provide a certification letter from an organization working on minority rights or issues of African descent.

How to apply

Submit your application via email to [email protected]. Required documents include a completed application form, a copy of your passport, a Curriculum Vitae, a 500-word personal statement, and an official letter from a nominating organization. All documents must be renamed as 'LAST NAME First name – Type of document' and attached in a single file. The email subject must be 'Application for the 2026 Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent'.

Notes

Any submission with more than five attachments will be disqualified. Ensure all documents are combined into one file before sending.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Original source: OpportunitiesCircle

Official application page: https://www.ohchr.org/en/about-us/fellowship-programmes/fellowship-programme-people-african-descent

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.