Are you passionate about protecting human rights defenders around the world? The Frank Jennings Fellowship for April 2026 offers a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in this vital field. This program trains recent graduates in key areas like the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders and the work of international organizations.
Program Overview
The Frank Jennings Fellowship lasts about 13 months. It starts with three and a half months at Front Line Defenders’ office in Dublin, Ireland. There, fellows learn about human rights defenders, UN procedures, and protection strategies. Next, they intern for six months at the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, Switzerland. The program ends with three more months back in Dublin.
This setup gives fellows real-world skills in advocacy and support for people at risk. Front Line Defenders focuses on aiding human rights activists facing threats globally.
Responsibilities in Dublin
During the Dublin phases, fellows assist protection coordinators. They handle correspondence with human rights defenders in danger. Fellows draft urgent appeals to help those at risk worldwide. They also enter data into the organization’s database and follow up on cases.
Other tasks include taking minutes at meetings, preparing briefings, reports, and appeals. These duties build strong administrative and communication skills.
Responsibilities in Geneva
In Geneva, fellows gather information on human rights defenders’ situations. They focus on themes set by the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders. Fellows help draft urgent appeals and communications to governments about violations.
They analyze government replies and summarize them for Human Rights Council reports. Additional work covers annual reports, mission preparations, and links with non-governmental organizations.
Benefits Provided
Fellows receive a salary of €30,629 per year while in Dublin. They get 13 annual leave days there, plus flights between Dublin and Geneva. Health and travel insurance cover the program. Dublin fellows also have access to an Employee Assistance Programme and monthly well-being support.
In Geneva, standard OHCHR internship rules apply for benefits.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold a degree in human rights, social sciences, development, humanitarian studies, or a related field. They should be recent graduates or within one year of completion. Native or native-level English is required, plus fluency in Spanish or French. No exceptions are made for languages.
Candidates need good communication, computer, administrative, and drafting skills. They must summarize complex information clearly. Basic knowledge of the UN system and human rights law helps. Applicants also need work permission for Ireland and Switzerland during the full program.
Application Process
Submit a CV and cover letter by midnight Irish time on April 14, 2026. Applications go through the official link on the Human Rights Careers jobs page. For full details, check the Frank Jennings Fellowship page there. Act fast, as the deadline is just days away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Frank Jennings Fellowship?
It is a 13-month program for recent graduates that provides hands-on training in protecting human rights defenders, with time spent in Dublin, Ireland, and Geneva, Switzerland.
What are the main responsibilities during the Dublin phases?
Fellows assist protection coordinators by handling correspondence, drafting urgent appeals, entering data, and preparing reports and briefings.
What benefits do fellows receive?
In Dublin, fellows get a €30,629 salary, 13 leave days, flights to Geneva, health and travel insurance, and well-being support; Geneva follows OHCHR internship rules.
What is the application deadline and how do I apply?
Submit your CV and cover letter by midnight Irish time on April 14, 2026, through the official link on the Human Rights Careers jobs page.
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