Columbia University has officially opened the application process for the 2026–2027 Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP), a globally recognized initiative that supports human rights defenders from around the world. The program provides a unique opportunity for experienced human rights advocates to enhance their knowledge, strengthen their networks, and build critical skills through academic and professional development in New York City. A Legacy of Supporting Human Rights Defenders Established in 1989, the Human Rights Advocates Program has a long-standing history of empowering frontline activists. Over the years, HRAP has become a vital platform for practitioners working in some of the most challenging and marginalized communities worldwide. By leveraging the vast academic and institutional resources available at Columbia University and within New York City—home to a dense network of international organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—HRAP provides advocates with a transformative experience that amplifies their voices and accelerates the impact of their work. Program Structure and Opportunities Participants in HRAP engage in a comprehensive program that combines academic study, skill-building workshops, mentoring, and networking. The curriculum is designed to be both rigorous and practical, offering a space for reflection and growth. Advocates attend seminars specifically tailored to the challenges and strategies of the human rights field. They also have the opportunity to enroll in courses across Columbia University’s schools and departments, further enriching their understanding of legal, political, social, and economic issues related to their advocacy work. One of the key features of the program is the series of workshops led by staff from leading human rights organizations. These sessions cover topics such as advocacy strategies, digital security, media engagement, organizational development, and fundraising. Participants also attend meetings with policymakers, funders, academics, and fellow advocates, fostering long-term professional relationships and collaborative opportunities. Mentoring is another cornerstone of the program, offering one-on-one guidance from experienced professionals who help participants refine their goals and campaign strategies. Impact and Global Reach of HRAP Alumni Since its inception, more than 350 human rights advocates from over 100 countries have completed the program. The alumni network spans the globe and represents a diverse array of voices, causes, and communities. These individuals have gone on to make substantial contributions to the field of human rights. Many have returned to their home countries to lead influential organizations, initiate grassroots movements, or develop new policy frameworks aimed at advancing justice and equality. The ripple effect of HRAP’s impact is vast. Alumni have worked with organizations whose collective membership numbers range from the thousands to the millions. Others have taken up roles within national governments, international institutions such as the United Nations, and academic settings where they continue to shape discourse, educate future advocates, and influence public policy. A number of graduates can also be found on the frontlines of crises, defending the rights of vulnerable communities, documenting abuses, and pushing for accountability and systemic change. Fostering a More Just and Peaceful World HRAP is more than a professional development program—it is a community of changemakers committed to building a more just, peaceful, and inclusive world. Through its multidisciplinary approach and commitment to diversity, the program enables participants to critically reflect on their work, share best practices with peers from different backgrounds, and develop new approaches to advocacy. The collective experience encourages cross-border collaboration and solidarity, reinforcing the global nature of the human rights movement. Application Process and Deadline Applicants interested in joining the 2026–2027 cohort are encouraged to visit the official HRAP Admissions page for detailed information on eligibility criteria, application requirements, and program expectations. The selection process is competitive and seeks individuals with a strong track record of human rights advocacy, demonstrated leadership potential, and a clear vision for how participation in HRAP will advance their work. The deadline to apply is Monday, December 1, 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so prospective participants are advised to begin the process early to ensure all required materials are submitted on time. Call to Action The Human Rights Advocates Program at Columbia University stands as a beacon of support for human rights defenders worldwide. It offers a rare and invaluable opportunity for advocates to deepen their knowledge, grow their networks, and sharpen their tools for social change. As the call for applications opens, individuals and organizations committed to justice and human rights are encouraged to seize this opportunity and become part of a transformative global community. For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the official organization. For any inquiries, please contact the awarding organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.