The OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland is now accepting applications. The fellowship will be offered in two cycles, from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027, and from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2027, at the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland.
A monthly stipend to cover basic living expenses in Geneva, a return ticket to and from Switzerland, and full medical insurance for the duration of the program are all included in the fellowship’s comprehensive support package.
The primary UN agency tasked with promoting and defending human rights around the world is OHCHR, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. Young professionals looking for real-world, hands-on experience in human rights work are the target audience for this fellowship. In order to obtain firsthand knowledge of victim-centered strategies, international human rights processes, and the UN’s role in preventing and addressing these grave breaches, fellows will work closely with professionals and experts who assist survivors of slavery and torture.
Participants in this fellowship will grow their international networks, improve their professional abilities, and get a better grasp of the formulation and application of international human rights policies.
The application guidelines and other information are given below.
Host Country: Geneva, Switzerland
Hosted By: United Nations Human Rights Office, Geneva
Opportunity Type: Fellowship
Duration: 1 Year
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Fellows’ Responsibilities
Grant Management: Review project proposals and provide technical guidance to partner organizations when needed.
Expert Research: Conduct in-depth research and analysis on global trends and developments related to slavery and torture.
Data Analysis: Document and evaluate best practices by identifying “what works” across UN-funded projects.
Communications: Develop engaging content such as social media posts, success stories, and informational brochures to highlight the Fund’s impact.
Event Planning: Support the organization and execution of high-level meetings and public events for the Board of Trustees.
Team Support: Assist other UN Human Rights divisions and teams as required to ensure smooth operations.
Eligibility Criteria:
- a minimum of two years of professional experience dealing with human rights issues, especially those involving torture and/or slavery.
- shown expertise in project management, encompassing program or project strategy, coordination, and execution.
- good communication skills in both written and spoken English at the professional level.
Benefits:
- Travel expenses to and from the fellowship location are covered by return airfare.
- Fellows receive a monthly stipend to help them during the program.
- financial assistance to pay for daily needs and housing, among other essential living costs.
- For the duration of the fellowship, basic health insurance is required to guarantee medical care.
Deadline: 15th April 2026
