Introduction
The Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026 is a special training opportunity for people who belong to national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority groups. It is organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The programme helps minority rights defenders learn about the United Nations system and international human rights tools. This fellowship gives participants the skills to support their communities and promote minority rights at a global level.
About the Fellowship
The fellowship started in 2005 and is one of OHCHR’s most complete training programmes for minority rights defenders. It brings activists from many regions together. During the training, fellows learn about UN human rights mechanisms, especially those connected to minority rights. They also build strong professional networks with UN bodies, NGOs, and human rights experts.
The 2026 fellowship will be held in Geneva, Switzerland, and will be offered only in English.
Host Country
Switzerland
Host University
There is no university host. The programme is delivered directly by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva.
Fellowship Type
Fully funded professional human rights training fellowship.
Degree
This fellowship is not an academic degree. It is a professional training programme.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must belong to a national, ethnic, linguistic, or religious minority.
- People who are not members of a minority group cannot apply.
- If the applicant belongs to an Indigenous community, they must apply to the Indigenous Fellowship Programme instead.
- Formal education is not required if the applicant has strong experience in minority rights work.
- Must be willing and able to train others in their community after completing the fellowship.
- Must speak and understand English well, as the 2026 programme is only in English.
- Must be nominated and supported by an organization or community that works on minority issues.
- The supporting organization should:
- have real members from the minority group,
- represent minority issues,
- work directly on minority matters,
- be led or composed by minority persons.
- The applicant must plan to return to their community or organization to continue work in minority and human rights.
Fields of Study
This fellowship focuses on:
- Human rights
- Minority rights
- United Nations human rights mechanisms
- Advocacy and community training
- International human rights instruments
Fellowship Benefits
Fellows receive the following support during the programme:
- A return economy-class flight from their home country to Geneva.
- Basic health insurance for the full duration of the fellowship.
- A stipend to cover modest accommodation and daily living costs in Geneva.
- Access to UN experts, NGOs, and professional networks.
- Training in human rights law, UN systems, and minority protection mechanisms.
Required Documents
Applicants generally need:
- Completed application form (OHCHR official form)
- Personal statement explaining motivation
- Recommendation letter from their community or organization
- Proof of belonging to a minority group (if applicable)
- CV or resume showing relevant experience
- Copy of passport or identification document
- Proof of English language ability (if required)
Application Process
The application process includes:
- Downloading and completing the official OHCHR application form.
- Preparing all required documents.
- Getting nomination and support from a minority organization or community.
- Submitting the complete application by email to the OHCHR fellowship team before the deadline.
- Waiting for selection results. Only selected candidates will be contacted.
Registration Deadlines
Below is the timeline for the 2026 fellowship:
| Step | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | Now Open |
| Application Deadline | 31 January 2026 |
| Review and Selection | February–March 2026 |
| Final Results | Selected candidates contacted only |
| Fellowship Programme in Geneva | 2026 (Exact dates announced later) |
Selection Process
The selection is carried out by an advisory group made up of OHCHR staff. They follow these principles:
- Gender balance
- Regional balance
- Human rights situation in the applicant’s country
- Situation of the minority community
- Applicant’s ability to help their community after training
Because there are many applications, only successful candidates will receive a response.
Tips to Succeed
- Show clear experience in minority rights work.
- Explain how you will help your community after the fellowship.
- Obtain a strong nomination letter from your organization.
- Write simple, clear answers in the application form.
- Highlight your commitment to long-term human rights work.
- Make sure your documents are complete and submitted on time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply?
Only people belonging to national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority groups.
Do I need a university degree?
No. Experience is more important than academic qualifications.
Is the programme fully funded?
Yes. It covers travel, insurance, a stipend, and training.
What language is used?
The 2026 fellowship is only in English.
Will I get a job after the programme?
The fellowship does not guarantee a job, but it improves professional skills and networks.
Why Choose This Fellowship
This fellowship is a strong opportunity for minority rights defenders. It gives professional training, UN-level knowledge, and global networks. Participants return home with skills to strengthen their organizations and protect their communities.
Career and Future Opportunities
After completing the fellowship, participants may:
- Work in human rights organizations
- Support minority communities through training
- Collaborate with international NGOs
- Contribute to UN human rights processes
- Lead advocacy campaigns
- Strengthen their local or national minority rights initiatives
Student Experiences
Past fellows often share that:
- The programme changed how they understand human rights.
- They built friendships and networks with activists worldwide.
- They learned how to speak for their community at the international level.
- They gained confidence to create new projects for their minority groups.
Contact Information
For questions or applications, visit the OHCHR website and contact the fellowship team through the official email provided on the programme page.
Conclusion
The Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for individuals who want to protect and promote the rights of minority communities. With full financial support, professional training, and a strong international network, the fellowship prepares activists to return home with new skills and knowledge. This programme helps build strong, educated, and empowered minority leaders around the world.
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