Indigenous Fellowship Programme
Senior Indigenous Fellow
What is it?
In 2011, OHCHR established an on-the-job training opportunity for indigenous persons who are more highly qualified/experienced. The position of "Senior Indigenous Fellow" aims to provide the selected candidate with an in-depth understanding of the international human rights system and mechanisms, especially those dealing with indigenous issues, through direct work experience within the Indigenous Peoples and Minorities Section (IPMS) of OHCHR Geneva. Along with gaining practical knowledge and work experience, the Senior Indigenous Fellow also develops extensive networks with other UN departments or agencies, Geneva-based human rights NGOs and other key actors dealing with human rights and indigenous issues at the international level.
2011 Senior Indigenous Fellow: Mr. Elifuraha Isaya Ole-Laltaika, Maasai, Tanzania.
2012 Senior Indigenous Fellow: Mr. Jesse McCormick, Anishnaabe, Canada.
2013 Senior Indigenous Fellow: Ms. Rosalee Coaticlue Gonzalez, Xicana-Kickapoo, USA.
How does it work?
Each year IPMS selects one Senior Indigenous Fellow who directly contributes to the programmes and activities of the Section for approximately four months in spring/summer. The activities of the Senior Indigenous Fellow include research and analysis, drafting official reports and speeches, participating in the organization and implementation of training activities and/or workshops and international meetings. The position also involves tasks that are more of an administrative nature. The Fellow is expected to return to his/her home country with an enhanced set of skills and expertise to contribute towards the promotion and protection of human rights of indigenous persons at the national, regional and international levels. The selected candidate is entitled to a stipend to cover modest accommodation and other living expenses, as well as a return ticket to Geneva and basic health insurance.
Who can apply?
The candidate must be indigenous. He/she should have:
A university degree preferably in law, political sciences, international relations or any other disciplines related to human rights.
Minimum of four years of working experience in the field of indigenous peoples’ rights.
He/she should be fluent in English. Other language skills including Spanish, French or Russian are highly desirable.
How to apply?
Each year, a call for application in posted on OHCHR website, usually in December/January.
For more information on how to apply, please click on the following 2013 call for application (Word). Please note that the deadline to receive applications for the 2013 Senior Indigenous Fellow position is: 15 February 2013.