The UN Human Rights Minorities Fellowship Programme (MFP) 2026 invites human rights defenders from minority groups for world-class training in Geneva, Switzerland. The fellowship is fully supported, covering airfare, insurance, and a stipend. Applicants must demonstrate commitment, be supported by a community organization, and pledge to train others. Deadline: January 31, 2026.
UN Human Rights Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) |
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Category | Professional Fellowship / Advocacy Training |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (Global Eligibility) |
| Reward | Fully Supported (Airfare, Insurance, Stipend) |
| Target Group | Human Rights Defenders from Minority Groups |
| Duration | Structured Training Program |
| Application Deadline | January 31, 2026 (23:59 Geneva time) |
The United Nations Human Rights Office Minorities Fellowship Programme (MFP) 2026
The United Nations Human Rights Office invites dedicated human rights defenders from national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority groups to apply for the prestigious Minorities Fellowship Programme (MFP) 2026. Since its launch in 2005, the MFP has served as a transformative platform, empowering minority activists worldwide with the specialized knowledge and international network necessary to amplify their voices and drive tangible change in their communities.
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Held in Geneva, Switzerland, a global center for human rights advocacy, the program offers unparalleled training focused on international human rights mechanisms and specialized minority rights advocacy. Fellows gain practical knowledge, build lasting partnerships, and return home equipped to lead change.
Benefits and Specific Awards of the Minorities Fellowship Programme
The MFP is a fully supported fellowship, ensuring that selected participants can dedicate their focus entirely to the world-class training and networking opportunities without financial constraint.
Tier 1: MFP Full Financial Support and Logistics
- Return Economy Airfare: Coverage for the round-trip economy airfare to and from Geneva, Switzerland.
- Stipend: A stipend is provided to cover modest accommodation and living expenses while in Geneva.
- Basic Health Insurance: Fellows receive basic health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship program.
Tier 2: Specialized Training and Skill Development
- UN System Understanding: Comprehensive training on the United Nations system and international human rights mechanisms for minority protection.
- Advocacy Skills: Specialized training in minority rights advocacy to strengthen local efforts and influence policy at the international level.
- Direct Engagement: Access to direct engagement opportunities with UN experts, global activists, and Geneva-based non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Tier 3: Networking and Community Impact
- Global Network: Fellows gain access to a powerful and dedicated global network of change-makers committed to promoting equality and protecting minority rights.
- Recognition: Participants receive recognition as part of an international network of minority-rights defenders.
- Multiplier Effect: Commitment to train others in their community post-fellowship ensures the knowledge gained is disseminated and applied locally, multiplying the program’s impact.
Eligibility Requirements for Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026
The MFP seeks candidates who are active leaders and dedicated advocates within their respective minority communities. The criteria focus heavily on demonstrated commitment and experience.
- Minority Group Membership: Applicants must be members of a national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority group.
- Human Rights Experience: Must demonstrate a strong commitment and experience in human rights work related to minority issues. Formal education is not a prerequisite.
- Community Support: Must secure and provide support from a relevant community or organization confirming the applicant’s ongoing engagement in minority rights advocacy.
- Training Commitment: Must commit to training others in their community upon completion of the fellowship to maximize the program’s reach.
How to Apply for Minorities Fellowship Programme 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is exclusively online and requires all components, including letters of recommendation, to be submitted by the deadline.
- Access the Online Application: Click the link below to access the official Minorities Fellowship Programme Online Application portal.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the complete online application form, detailing your commitment, experience, and the organization supporting your candidacy.
- Submit Recommendation Letters: Ensure all required recommendation letters are submitted to support your application before the deadline.
- Final Submission: Submit the fully completed online application by the stated deadline. Early submission is strongly encouraged for smooth processing.
Application Deadline: 31 January 2026, 23:59 Geneva time
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the location of the Minorities Fellowship Programme (MFP)?
The fellowship takes place in Geneva, Switzerland, a critical global hub for international human rights institutions and advocacy.
2. What is the application deadline for the 2026 Minorities Fellowship Programme?
The final deadline for all applications and supporting documents is January 31, 2026, at 23:59 Geneva time.
3. What costs does the MFP cover for the selected fellows?
The MFP is fully supported, covering return economy airfare to Geneva, basic health insurance, and a stipend for accommodation and living expenses.
4. What is the primary purpose of the training offered by the MFP?
The primary purpose is to provide minority activists with a comprehensive understanding of the United Nations system and specialized training in minority rights advocacy.
5. Do applicants need formal academic qualifications in human rights?
No, formal education is not required. The fellowship prioritizes demonstrated commitment and experience in human rights work related to minority issues.
6. Who is considered eligible as a “minority” for this fellowship?
Candidates must be members of a national, ethnic, religious, or linguistic minority group to be eligible for the program.
7. How many applications can one candidate submit for the MFP?
The program only requires and accepts one complete online application per candidate.
8. Is securing support from a community organization mandatory?
Yes, applicants must have support from a community or organization that confirms their ongoing commitment and engagement in minority rights work.
9. What is the expected commitment from fellows after they complete the program?
Fellows are expected to commit to training others in their community upon returning home, thereby disseminating the knowledge gained and creating a multiplier effect.
10. Does the fellowship provide networking opportunities?
Yes, a core benefit is the opportunity to access a global network of change-makers and engage directly with UN experts and international activists.
