Apply for the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2027 in Switzerland (Fully Funded) - the United Nations Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) run by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The programme strengthens Indigenous leaders’ knowledge of the UN system and international human rights mechanisms that protect Indigenous Peoples’ rights.
Selected fellows join an intensive 4 - 5 week training in Geneva, usually timed with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (typically June/July 2027). Training is offered with simultaneous interpretation across language components including English, French, Spanish, Portuguese (and historically Russian as a programme language).
This Opportunity Station guide covers benefits, eligibility, documents, and how to apply online before the deadline.
Quick Facts - OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme 2027
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host country | Switzerland |
| Host city | Geneva |
| Organisation | OHCHR (Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights) |
| Programme | Indigenous Fellowship Programme (IFP) 2027 |
| Type | Fully funded human rights training fellowship |
| Duration | About 4 - 5 weeks (often June/July 2027) |
| Languages | English, French, Spanish, Portuguese (confirm current components) |
| Who | Indigenous persons nominated by an Indigenous organisation or community |
| Education | No formal educational qualifications required |
| Deadline | 6 September 2026, 23:59 Geneva time |
| Official apply | OHCHR online application form |
Why Apply for the OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2027?
- Fully funded UN human rights training in Geneva
- Deepen practical knowledge of UN mechanisms on Indigenous Peoples’ rights
- Train alongside fellows from multiple language components
- Build skills to advocate and train others in your community after the programme
- No formal degree requirement - focus is on Indigenous leadership and community nomination
Fully Funded Benefits
According to OHCHR, selected candidates are entitled to:
- Return flight ticket to/from Geneva
- Living expenses for the duration of the training
- Basic health insurance during the programme
Eligibility Requirements
- Be an Indigenous person
- Have formal nomination / support from an Indigenous organisation or community
- Have a good working knowledge of the language component you apply for (English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese)
- Be willing to train other Indigenous people after completing the fellowship
- Complete both Part I and Part II of the online application form
There is generally no age limit and no formal educational qualification requirement.
Required Documents
- Fully completed online application (Parts I and II)
- Official recommendation letter from the nominating Indigenous organisation or community (uploaded in the form)
How to Apply
- Read the official programme page: OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme.
- Secure a recommendation letter from your nominating Indigenous organisation or community.
- Complete the online form at survey.ohchr.org (both parts).
- Upload the recommendation letter and submit before 6 September 2026, 23:59 Geneva time.
- Questions: ohchr-fellowship@un.org
Official Links
Apply - 2027 OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship form
Related Opportunities on Opportunity Station
- WIPO Fellowship 2026 Switzerland
- WIPO Internship 2027 Switzerland
- Yale Peace Fellowship 2027
- Browse all fellowships
FAQs - OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship 2027
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive return airfare, living expenses, and basic health insurance for the training period.
What is the deadline?
6 September 2026 at 23:59 Geneva time. Submit early to avoid last-minute issues.
How long is the programme?
Typically 4 - 5 weeks in Geneva, often around June/July when the Expert Mechanism meets.
Who can apply?
Indigenous persons nominated by an Indigenous organisation or community, with working knowledge of a programme language and a commitment to train others afterward.
