Deadline:15 April 2026
The Fellowship Programme of the OHCHR Humanitarian Funds offers young professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the United Nations human rights system. Managed by the United Nations Human Rights Office, the programme supports the work of two key funds:
- The United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery
- The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
Both funds provide grants to civil society organizations delivering direct assistance to survivors of slavery and torture. The fellowship allows professionals working in these areas to strengthen their expertise while contributing to grant management, research, and policy work.
Fellowship Overview
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Host Entity: United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR)
- Positions Available: 2
- Application Period: 20 February – 15 April 2026
Fellowship Periods
Applicants may apply for one or both of the following terms:
- 01 August 2026 – 31 July 2027
- 01 January 2027 – 31 December 2027
Each fellowship includes a two-month probation period, with the possibility of a one-year extension depending on funding availability.
Fellowship Responsibilities
Selected fellows will:
- Evaluate and analyse project applications for funding
- Provide technical support to applicant organizations
- Conduct research on contemporary forms of slavery and torture
- Document best practices and lessons learned from funded projects
- Support outreach and communications (website updates, brochures, social media content)
- Assist in organizing annual Board of Trustees sessions and public events
- Contribute to broader work within the United Nations Human Rights Office
Financial Support
Fellows receive:
- A monthly stipend covering basic living expenses in Geneva
- A return flight ticket from/to their country of residence
- Basic health insurance coverage
Eligibility Requirements
Experience
- Minimum two years of experience in human rights work related to slavery and/or torture (required)
- Experience supporting survivors (desirable)
- Experience in project management (desirable)
Languages
- Working-level English (required)
- French or Spanish (desirable)
- Knowledge of another UN language (Arabic, Chinese, or Russian) is an asset
Additional Criteria
- Knowledge of the United Nations system is desirable
- Survivors supporting other survivors are strongly encouraged to apply
- Priority may be given to candidates with experience in organizations funded by the Humanitarian Funds
- Applicants must commit to the full duration of the fellowship
The United Nations promotes diversity and inclusion and encourages applications regardless of gender identity, background, or disability status.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit their application by 15 April 2026 via email to:
Required Documents:
- Completed and signed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a written assessment and interview.
This fellowship offers a valuable opportunity for professionals working on slavery and torture-related issues to deepen their engagement with the United Nations human rights system while contributing directly to survivor-focused funding mechanisms.
For further details, please see the OHCHR’s website.
