Application Deadline: 15 April 2026
The United Nations Human Rights Office has officially opened applications for the 2026/2027 cycle of the UN OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship Programme. This unique fellowship is administered under the umbrella of two vital Humanitarian Funds overseen by the Office: the United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery and the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. Each Fund is specifically designed to allocate voluntary contributions towards providing direct aid to individuals who have survived severe human rights violations. This assistance is delivered primarily through grants awarded to civil society organizations that work closely with victims.
As part of its commitment to strengthening expertise and support mechanisms within this field, the Humanitarian Funds operate a fellowship programme. This initiative targets emerging professionals who have prior involvement with organizations delivering aid and services to survivors of contemporary forms of slavery and/or torture. The fellowship offers an invaluable opportunity to deepen their understanding and enhance their capabilities in addressing these critical issues within the framework of the United Nations system.
Programme Overview
This announcement invites applications for two fellowship roles, situated within the Humanitarian Funds Secretariat of the United Nations Human Rights Office, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The application window is open from 20 February until 15 April 2026. The fellowships are scheduled for two distinct periods: one running from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2027, and the other from 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2027. Both fellowship terms include an initial two-month probationary phase. Depending on funding availability, there might be an option to extend the fellowship for up to an additional year.
Eligibility Criteria
- Professional Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of two years’ experience working on human rights concerns related to contemporary slavery and/or torture. Direct involvement in supporting survivors of these abuses is essential. Experience managing projects is considered an advantage.
- Language Proficiency: Candidates need to demonstrate working proficiency in both spoken and written English. Fluency in French or Spanish is highly preferred. Additionally, knowledge of other United Nations official languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, or Russian, will be regarded favorably.
- Other Skills and Knowledge: Familiarity with the workings of the United Nations system is a desirable asset for applicants.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend designed to cover basic living expenses during their stay in Geneva. The fellowship also includes a round-trip airfare between the fellow's country of residence and Geneva, as well as basic health insurance coverage. It is important to note that this fellowship is not a standard employment position within the United Nations Human Rights Office; therefore, it does not confer employment rights or benefits beyond the fellowship’s defined terms.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit a complete application package via email to hrfellowship@ohchr.org no later than 15 April 2026. Only candidates who meet the selection criteria will be contacted for further steps, which may include a written examination and an interview.
Applicants are encouraged to review The Terms of Reference that outline the responsibilities and expectations related to the two fellowship positions, which are contingent upon the availability of funding. When applying, candidates must specify their availability for either or both of the fellowship periods indicated.
Required Application Documents
- A fully completed and signed Application form.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) limited to a maximum of two pages.
Additional Information
For more detailed information about the fellowship initiative, prospective candidates can Visit the Official Webpage of the UN OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship Programme.
