Deadline: November 8, 2026
Applications are open for the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples 2027. The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples is pleased to invite applications from representatives of Indigenous Peoples to attend the 26th session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and the 20th session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The meetings are schedules as follows:
- 26th session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII).
10 to 21 May 2027
New York, United States of America - 20th session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP)
12 to 16 July 2027
Geneva, Switzerland
Benefits
- The UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples will provide, in accordance with United Nations rules and procedures, a travel arrangement as well as a stipend to cover travel, accommodation, and related expenses for selected Indigenous representatives attending the abovementioned processes.
Eligibility
Applications are open to Indigenous individuals and representatives of Indigenous Peoples’ organizations who:
- Are actively engaged in the promotion and protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples;
- Can demonstrate how their participation will contribute to advocacy efforts on behalf of their communities and organizations; and
- Require financial support to cover travel, accommodation and related expenses.
Applications from Indigenous persons with disabilities and Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ persons are particularly encouraged.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed on the basis of the following criteria:
- Representation: Priority will be given to Indigenous representatives who have a clear mandate from their communities or organizations.
- Relevance: Demonstrated engagement in human rights issues affecting Indigenous Peoples, including engagement with the specific human rights mechanism.
- Impact: Potential for the applicant’s participation to strengthen advocacy, engagement with United Nations mechanisms and policy influence at the national, regional or international levels.
- Previous engagement and preparedness: Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate previous engagement with advocacy processes, consultations, caucuses, submissions or community initiatives related to the selected process.
- Need: Financial need and lack of alternative sources of funding.
Application
Applicants are required to upload the following documents:
- A recent curriculum vitae;
- A copy of their passport;
- A letter of recommendation from the Indigenous organization, community, non-governmental or non-profit institution they represent (kindly note that there is no official or prescribed template for such letters. Applicants are free to use a format of their choice).
Interested candidates must complete the application form available at:
For more information, visit UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples.
