Fully Funded UN OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme Opens Applications for Indigenous Youth Leaders

The Youth and Women for Peace and Sustainable Development (YOWPSUD) is pleased to share an exciting opportunity for Indigenous youth committed to advancing human rights, community leadership, and social justice. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has opened applications for its prestigious Indigenous Fellowship Programme, a fully funded international training initiative that equips Indigenous leaders with practical knowledge of the United Nations human rights system.

This unique fellowship is designed to strengthen the capacity of Indigenous individuals to promote and protect the rights of their communities. Through an intensive training programme at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, fellows gain first-hand experience of international human rights mechanisms, engage with experts, and build networks with Indigenous leaders from around the world.

Why this Fellowship Matters

Indigenous communities continue to play a critical role in preserving cultural heritage, protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening social cohesion. However, many Indigenous Peoples still face barriers to meaningful participation in decision-making processes and the protection of their collective rights.

The OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Programme empowers participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to engage effectively with international human rights mechanisms and advocate for the rights and aspirations of their communities.

Upon completing the programme, fellows are expected to return home and share the knowledge and experience gained with their organizations and communities, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and leadership.

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is intended for Indigenous persons who are actively engaged in promoting and protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Applicants should:

• Be members of an Indigenous community.

• Be supported or nominated by an Indigenous organization or community.

• Demonstrate a commitment to advancing Indigenous rights and community development.

• Be willing to share the knowledge acquired with their communities after completing the programme.

• Meet the language requirements specified for the fellowship.

What the Fellowship Covers

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial support, including:

• International return airfare.

• Accommodation and daily living expenses.

• Basic health insurance during the programme.

• Training materials and participation in the full fellowship programme.

A Call to Indigenous Youth

At YOWPSUD, we believe that investing in young leaders creates stronger, more inclusive, and peaceful societies. Indigenous youth possess invaluable knowledge, traditions, and leadership potential that can shape local, national, and global conversations on human rights, peacebuilding, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development.

We encourage eligible Indigenous youth to seize this opportunity to strengthen their leadership journey, amplify the voices of their communities, and become ambassadors for Indigenous rights on the global stage.

Learn More and Apply

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements, application process, and submission deadlines through the official fellowship information before applying.

YOWPSUD remains committed to connecting young people with transformative opportunities that foster leadership, inclusion, and sustainable peace. We wish all eligible applicants the very best as they pursue this remarkable opportunity to represent their communities on the international stage.