Submit Applications for Frank Jennings Fellowship 2025
Gain human rights advocacy experience through a structured international fellowship
The Frank Jennings Fellowship 2025-2026 presents an exciting paid opportunity for recent graduates passionate about human rights advocacy. Offered by Front Line Defenders, in collaboration with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), this prestigious fellowship allows selected individuals to gain firsthand experience in the protection of human rights defenders at both an international NGO and the United Nations. The fellowship is named in honor of Frank Jennings, the former Head of Research at Front Line Defenders, whose legacy in human rights activism remains significant.
The program is structured to provide comprehensive training and experience in human rights advocacy, with a particular focus on the protection of human rights defenders. Fellows will work with Front Line Defenders in Dublin and the OHCHR in Geneva, engaging in critical research, advocacy, and case management to support individuals facing persecution. This fellowship is an unparalleled opportunity for graduates looking to build expertise in human rights law and international advocacy.
Applicants must be recent university graduates, either currently enrolled or having completed their studies within one year of beginning the OHCHR internship. Proficiency in both English and Spanish is mandatory, as no exceptions will be made regarding language requirements. Candidates should also have a foundational understanding of the UN system and international human rights law, alongside relevant work experience in human rights organizations. Strong drafting and communication skills, as well as administrative capabilities, are essential for success in this role.
The fellowship is divided into three distinct phases. The first phase takes place at Front Line Defenders in Dublin, lasting 3.5 months, where fellows receive training on key human rights topics and assist with correspondence, urgent appeals, and database management. The second phase is a six-month OHCHR internship in Geneva, where fellows will focus on drafting urgent appeals, analyzing government responses, and preparing reports for official missions. The final three-month phase brings fellows back to Front Line Defenders in Dublin to consolidate their learning and continue supporting ongoing projects.
Fellows will receive a monthly honorarium of €1651 while in Dublin and €1700 while in Geneva. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in Ireland. The application process requires a cover letter detailing the applicant’s interest and experience, a CV or resume, and proof of language proficiency in English and Spanish.
The deadline for applications is Friday, 28 February 2025, with the fellowship expected to begin in May 2025.
Submit Applications: https://www.frontlinedefenders.org/en/recruitment-volunteering.