The Fellowship Programme of the OHCHR Humanitarian Funds offers young professionals working in human rights a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience within the United Nations system while supporting global efforts to assist survivors of torture and contemporary forms of slavery. Based at the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland, this fully funded fellowship provides hands-on exposure to human rights programming, research, grant evaluation, and policy processes.
About the OHCHR Humanitarian Funds Fellowship Programme
The United Nations Human Rights Office manages two humanitarian funds:
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United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery
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United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
These funds channel voluntary contributions toward direct assistance for survivors through grants to civil society organizations worldwide.
The fellowship programme aims to:
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Provide young professionals with working-level exposure to the UN human rights system
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Strengthen knowledge and skills in addressing slavery and torture-related issues
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Build practical experience in grant evaluation and management
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Support survivor-centered human rights programming
Call for Applications (2026 Intake)
Applications are open from 20 February to 15 April 2026 for two fellowship positions within the Humanitarian Funds Secretariat at the United Nations Human Rights Office in Geneva.
Fellowship timelines:
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01 August 2026 to 31 July 2027
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01 January 2027 to 31 December 2027
Additional details:
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Two-month probationary period applies
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Possible extension of up to one additional year, subject to funding availability
Key Responsibilities of Fellows
Selected fellows will contribute to the work of the Humanitarian Funds through activities such as:
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Evaluating and analysing project applications
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Liaising with applicant organizations and providing technical support
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Conducting research and analysis on contemporary forms of slavery and torture
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Reviewing and compiling best practices and lessons learned from grantees
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Supporting outreach and visibility activities (website updates, brochures, social media content, impact stories)
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Assisting in organizing annual sessions of the Boards of Trustees, including policy discussions and public events
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Contributing to other OHCHR activities as required
Fellowship Benefits
Selected candidates will receive:
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Monthly stipend covering basic living expenses in Geneva
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Return airfare to and from country of residence
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Basic health insurance coverage
Eligibility Requirements
Experience
Applicants must have:
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At least two years of experience in human rights issues related to contemporary forms of slavery and/or torture
Desirable experience:
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Supporting survivors of slavery and/or torture
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Project management
Languages
Required:
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Working-level spoken and written English
Desirable:
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Fluency in French or Spanish
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Knowledge of another UN language (Arabic, Chinese, or Russian)
Additional Criteria
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Knowledge of the United Nations system is an advantage
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Survivors supporting other survivors are strongly encouraged to apply
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Priority may be given to candidates with experience in organizations funded by the Humanitarian Funds
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Applicants must be available for the full fellowship duration
The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. Reasonable accommodation may be provided during the application process when requested.
Application Process
Application deadline:
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15 April 2026
Submission details:
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Send complete application by email to: ohchr-unvfvt@un.org
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Only successful applicants will be contacted
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Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a written exam and interview
Required documents:
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Fully completed and signed application form. Application form fully completed and signed
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Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages)
The Terms of Reference cover two fellowship positions, applicants should confirm their availability to one or both of the start-end dates in the application form.
Why You Should Apply
This fellowship offers a strong career opportunity for human rights professionals seeking UN experience. Fellows will:
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Gain direct exposure to the UN human rights system
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Build expertise in grant evaluation and humanitarian funding mechanisms
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Strengthen research, policy, and programme management skills
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Work on initiatives that directly support survivors of serious human rights violations
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Expand international professional networks
Related Human Rights Resources
Applicants may also explore:
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United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture
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United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery
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OHCHR work on trafficking in persons
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Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery
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Special Rapporteur on the sale and sexual exploitation of children
Final Application Tip
Strong applications typically:
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Demonstrate practical experience supporting survivors
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Show clear understanding of human rights challenges
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Present concrete examples of impact
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Explain how the fellowship aligns with long-term professional goals
Tailored, evidence-based applications are generally more competitive than generic submissions.
Application and selection process
Interested candidates should send their complete application by e-mail to ohchr-unvfvt@un.org not later than 15 April 2026 (only successful applicants will receive a reply). Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for a written exam and an interview following application. The Terms of Reference cover two fellowship positions, applicants should confirm their availability to one or both of the start-end dates in the application form.
Required documentation:
- Application form fully completed and signed
- Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)
Source: https://www.ohchr.org/en/about-us/fellowship-programmes/humanitarian-funds-fellowship