In 2005, the OHCHR launched the Minorities Fellowship Programme (MFP), which is a comprehensive training program designed specifically for human rights defenders from national, ethnic, religious, and linguistic minority groups.
The program aims to equip fellows with a deep understanding of international human rights instruments and mechanisms, with a particular focus on minority rights and the United Nations system.
Through the MFP, human rights advocates have the opportunity to expand their connections by building strategic partnerships with international activists, the UN, and other non-governmental organizations based in Geneva.
Fellowship Overview:
- Open to all nationalities
- The program is sponsored by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- The application deadline is 22nd November 2024
About United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR):
The UN Refugee Agency, also known as UNHCR, is a prominent global organization dedicated to safeguarding human rights, preserving lives, and enhancing the prospects of stateless individuals, refugees, and communities that have experienced forced displacement.
UNHCR is an international entity with a pivotal role in protecting human rights, preserving lives, and offering individuals fleeing persecution or conflict a chance at a brighter future.
At the forefront of global initiatives combating statelessness, forced displacement, and refugee challenges, we strive to create a world where every displaced person can carve out a better future for themselves.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1950, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), formerly known as the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees, was created to assist the millions of individuals forcibly displaced from their homes.
Benefits of the OHCHR Minorities Fellowship:
The course takes place in Geneva, Switzerland, and is available in three languages: Arabic, Russian, and English.
A roundtrip economy class ticket from your home country to Geneva is one of your entitlements.
For the length of the program, you will have basic health insurance.
A stipend to help with minimal living expenditures and lodging.
Requirements:
You must be a member of a minority group in terms of nationality, ethnicity, language, or religion.
Even if you have intimate ties to a minority community or organization, you will not be accepted if you do not belong to a minority group.
As long as relevant experience is shown, a formal education is not required. Upon return, you must be able, willing, and able to train others in your community or organization.
Additionally, you need to be proficient in the language used for the program.
It is the responsibility of your community or group to suggest and endorse you.
How to Apply:
Visit the OHCHR website for more details and apply.
Given the overall state of human rights in the regions where the applicants are from, the selection process takes gender and regional balance into account.
