BY ALEX BALUKU
Baluku is a distinguished Fellow of the Dag Hammarskjöld Fund for Journalists, currently reporting from the United States of America on the 78th UN General Assembly. With a keen eye for global affairs and a commitment to delivering insightful coverage of UN activities, Baluku brings a unique perspective to the world of international journalism.
In a remarkable initiative aimed at empowering Indigenous Peoples from around the world, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has officially opened applications for the 2024 OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program. With its roots dating back to 1997, this program has become a beacon of hope, offering an unparalleled opportunity for Indigenous individuals to deepen their understanding of human rights and advocate for the rights of their communities.
The OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program was established during the First International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People and has since played a pivotal role in educating and training Indigenous leaders in matters of human rights, as well as the specific issues faced by Indigenous Peoples. By participating in this program, individuals gain valuable insights into the inner workings of UN institutions and mechanisms related to human rights, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate effectively for their communities.
What Does the 2024 OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program Offer?
This year, the OHCHR has tailored the program to be more accessible and inclusive than ever before. The 2024 Fellowship Program spans four weeks during the summer and is available in five different languages: English, Spanish, French, Russian, and Portuguese. This multilingual approach ensures that Indigenous leaders from various regions and language backgrounds can participate and engage fully.
Participants of this Fellowship Program will have the unique opportunity to:
- Learn about the work of UN institutions and mechanisms focusing on human rights.
- Gain in-depth knowledge of the specific human rights issues faced by Indigenous Peoples.
- Acquire essential skills and strategies for advocating effectively on behalf of their communities.
- Collaborate with like-minded individuals and share experiences on an international stage.
- Apply this knowledge to better serve their organizations and communities in promoting and safeguarding their rights.
Application Deadline: Monday, October 30, 2023
If you are an Indigenous individual passionate about advocating for the rights and well-being of your community, this is a golden opportunity to make a difference. The application window for the 2024 OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program is open until Monday, October 30, 2023. The OHCHR welcomes applicants from all five language components.
For detailed information about eligibility criteria and instructions on how to apply for this life-changing program, visit the OHCHR’s website by clicking the link below;
https://www.ohchr.org/en/about-us/fellowship-programmes/about-programme
This is not just an opportunity; it is a call for leaders who are dedicated to advancing the rights and dignity of Indigenous Peoples. Seize this chance to be a part of the change and apply for the 2024 OHCHR Indigenous Fellowship Program today. Together, we can make a brighter future for all Indigenous communities.
