Are you passionate about human rights and eager to make a global impact? The United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) is offering a unique, fully funded fellowship opportunity in Geneva, Switzerland, for young professionals working on issues related to contemporary forms of slavery and torture. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience within the UN system, expand your professional network, and contribute to meaningful change for survivors worldwide.
About the OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Duration: 12 months (with possible extension)
- Dates: Two positions: 01 August 2026 – 31 July 2027 and 01 January 2027 – 31 December 2027
- Benefits: Monthly stipend, return airfare, basic health insurance
- Deadline: 15 April 2026
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Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend covering basic living expenses in Geneva
- Return ticket from/to the country of residence
- Basic health insurance
- Professional experience with the United Nations Human Rights Office
- Opportunity to extend fellowship for up to one additional year (subject to funding)
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Program Theme
The OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship is designed for professionals with experience supporting survivors of contemporary forms of slavery and/or torture. Fellows will work directly with the Humanitarian Funds Secretariat, evaluating project applications, conducting research, compiling best practices, contributing to outreach, and helping organize high-level events. This fellowship provides a deep dive into the UN’s approach to human rights, grant management, and survivor support.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to all nationalities
- Experience: Minimum two years in human rights work related to contemporary forms of slavery and/or torture; experience supporting survivors required
- Background: Experience in project management is desirable; knowledge of the UN system is an asset
- Languages: Working knowledge of English required; fluency in French or Spanish desirable; knowledge of Arabic, Chinese, or Russian is an advantage
- Other Requirements:
- Applicants must be available for the full duration of the fellowship
- Individuals with lived experience of slavery or torture who support other survivors are strongly encouraged to apply
- Candidates from organizations funded by the Humanitarian Funds are encouraged to apply
- The UN encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities
How to Apply for the OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship?
To apply, candidates must submit a fully completed and signed application form and a CV (maximum 2 pages) by email to ohchr-unvfvt@un.org no later than 15 April 2026. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further assessment. For complete details and to download the application form, visit the official OHCHR website.
Yasir is currently a master’s student at Bilkent University on a fully funded scholarship. He has a strong passion for technology, innovation, and creating meaningful impact through digital platforms. Yasir’s goal is to make education more accessible by helping students discover global opportunities and take confident steps toward their future.