OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland

OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland

Bachelors

Selected courses offered by the university

Last Date 15 October 2025

Introduction

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has officially announced applications for the Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) 2026. This prestigious opportunity, launched in 1997, empowers Indigenous leaders and activists by equipping them with knowledge of the UN human rights system and Indigenous rights mechanisms.

The fellowship is fully funded and hosted in Geneva, Switzerland, making it a unique chance for Indigenous advocates to strengthen their capacity, engage internationally, and bring impactful change to their communities.

Fellowship Benefits

• Fully funded support, including round-trip airfare, accommodation, living expenses, and health insurance.
• Four weeks of training at the OHCHR headquarters in Geneva.
• Access to simultaneous interpretation in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.
• In-depth exposure to UN Indigenous rights mechanisms and human rights processes.

Eligibility 

• Applicants must be Indigenous persons recognized by their own community or organization.
• Formal education is not required. The program values lived experience and commitment to community.
• Applications are accepted from all regions worldwide, including Pakistan, provided the candidate belongs to an Indigenous group.
• A nomination or recommendation letter from an Indigenous community/organization is mandatory.
• Candidates must commit to sharing knowledge after the fellowship by training others in their communities.

The selection process ensures regional balance, gender equity, and prioritizes applicants from underrepresented communities. Pre-selected candidates may be invited to interviews before the final decision.

Fellowship Matters

Indigenous peoples worldwide face challenges such as limited political representation, threats to land and culture, and socioeconomic barriers. The OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme is not just about training individuals; it is about building stronger Indigenous advocacy globally.

By investing in leaders who return home to train and uplift others, the program multiplies its impact—empowering entire communities to claim and defend their rights.

Final Thoughts

The OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland is a golden opportunity for Indigenous activists and community representatives to strengthen their advocacy on a global stage. For eligible applicants from Pakistan and across the world, this fellowship offers the tools, network, and knowledge to bring meaningful change.