Frank Jennings Fellowship 2025-2026: Paid Human Rights Advocacy Opportunity in Ireland & Geneva

Frank Jennings Fellowship: Paid Opportunity for Graduates in Ireland & Geneva: A Prestigious Fellowship for Human Rights Advocacy

The Frank Jennings Fellowship presents an incredible opportunity for passionate and skilled individuals to gain hands-on experience in the protection of human rights defenders. This fellowship, hosted by Front Line Defenders and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), enables participants to work within an international NGO and the UN system.

Named in memory of Frank Jennings, the former Head of Research at Front Line Defenders, this program continues his vital contributions to human rights activism in Ireland and beyond. Fellows will develop practical skills in human rights advocacy, gaining experience in international law and policy related to the protection of human rights defenders.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Education: Must be a recent graduate. Candidates should be either currently enrolled in university or have graduated within one year prior to starting the OHCHR internship.
Language Proficiency: Fluency in English and Spanish is required. No exceptions can be made regarding these language requirements.
Knowledge & Experience:
- Familiarity with the UN system and international human rights law is essential.
- Previous experience in a human rights organisation is preferred.
- Strong writing and analytical skills, with the ability to produce concise briefings from complex information.
- Administrative skills, including email correspondence, data entry, and database management.
- A flexible and team-oriented approach to work.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship consists of three phases, offering extensive exposure to human rights advocacy at both Front Line Defenders and the OHCHR.

Phase 1: Front Line Defenders (Dublin)

Duration: 3.5 months

Key Focus:

Training on human rights defenders' protection, the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, and the role of international and national institutions.

Responsibilities:

Assisting Protection Coordinators with casework and correspondence with human rights defenders.
Drafting urgent appeals for defenders at risk.
Managing data entry and maintaining Front Line Defenders' database.
Supporting administrative tasks such as report drafting and clerical work.

Phase 2: OHCHR Internship (Geneva)

Duration: 6 months

Key Focus:

Engaging in the work of the OHCHR, particularly in defending human rights activists globally.

Responsibilities:

Collecting and analysing information on human rights defenders worldwide.
Drafting urgent appeals and communications to governments.
Reviewing government responses and contributing to Human Rights Council reports.
Coordinating with non-governmental organisations to support human rights mandates.

Phase 3: Return to Front Line Defenders (Dublin)

Duration: 3 months

Key Focus:

Fellows return to Front Line Defenders to apply their acquired knowledge, contribute to ongoing projects, and continue their support for human rights defenders.

Honorarium & Benefits

Fellows will receive financial support throughout the program:

Dublin: €1651 per month
Geneva: €1700 per month

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit the following documents:

Cover Letter: Expressing interest in the fellowship, relevant experience, and motivation for working in human rights.
CV/Resume: Detailing educational background and any relevant work or internship experience.
Language Proficiency: Proof of fluency in English and Spanish.

Legal Requirement: Applicants must have legal authorization to work in Ireland.

Key Dates

Application Deadline: Friday, 28 February 2025
Fellowship Start Date: Expected to begin in May 2025

Applicants must apply through the designated application portal, ensuring they meet all eligibility requirements.

Commitment to Equal Opportunities

Front Line Defenders upholds an inclusive hiring process and encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds.

By joining the Frank Jennings Fellowship, you will actively contribute to the global movement advocating for human rights defenders, promoting justice, and advancing human rights protection worldwide. Start your application today!

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to Scholarship at Uniplus Global to apply