The programme focuses on indigenous peoples' rights, human rights, United Nations mechanisms, indigenous advocacy, human rights protection, human rights promotion, capacity building, community leadership, international human rights training, indigenous organisations, and global networking.

The Indigenous Fellowship Programme was established in 1997 by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) during the first International Decade of the World's Indigenous People. The programme is designed to equip indigenous participants with comprehensive knowledge of the United Nations system and its human rights mechanisms, with particular emphasis on issues affecting indigenous peoples. Fellows are expected to use the knowledge gained to strengthen the work of their organisations and communities in advancing and protecting indigenous rights.

The four-week training programme is conducted in Geneva and brings together fellows participating in the English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese language components with simultaneous interpretation. The programme is generally scheduled to coincide with the annual session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, enabling fellows to actively engage with this important United Nations mechanism.

Selected participants receive comprehensive support throughout the programme, including a return international airfare, living expenses during the training period, and basic health insurance.

The fellowship is open exclusively to indigenous individuals. Indigenous women, LGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. There are no age restrictions, and formal educational qualifications are not required, recognising that many indigenous peoples face barriers to accessing higher education.

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to sharing the knowledge acquired during the fellowship by training other indigenous people after returning to their communities or organisations. Candidates must also be nominated and supported by their indigenous organisation or community, preferably one with an established membership base and representative role. In addition, applicants should have a good working knowledge of the language in which they intend to undertake the training.

For more information, visit OHCHR.