The Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR) at Columbia University is now accepting applications for the 2026–27 Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP). The program targets human rights activists working at the grassroots level and provides professional development, capacity-building, and mentorship to strengthen their advocacy efforts. Program Overview HRAP is designed for activists working with NGOs on issues including: Sexual and gender-based violence Minority rights and LGBTQI+ rights Labor rights and indigenous peoples’ rights Migration, health, and social inclusion Environmental justice and corporate social accountability Participants are selected based on professional experience, commitment to human rights, and the ability to engage in graduate-level study. Priority is given to advocates with full-time jobs pursuing advocacy work and those from marginalized communities. Applicants from high-income countries are generally ineligible unless representing underserved groups. Key Dates Application Deadline: Monday, 1 December 2025, 11:59 pm ET Program Duration: Mid-January 2027 to mid-May 2027 (on-campus), with an online component in November–December 2026 Status Notifications: By 30 April 2026 Eligibility Criteria Human rights activists working at the grassroots level Fluency in English (oral and written) Institutional endorsement from their organization confirming program participation and post-program return Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required Applicants from marginalized communities and those without prior international study opportunities are strongly encouraged Funding ISHR strives to secure funding for shortlisted advocates. In cases where full funding is not available, applicants may be required to identify their own funding sources. Application Requirements Applicants must submit: Completed application form (English) via ISHR website account Two signed letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the applicant’s work as a human rights advocate Proof of institutional endorsement (cannot be combined with recommendation letters) University diploma and/or transcript (highest degree held) Selection Process Shortlisted applicants will interview with HRAP alumni from their region Finalists will interview with ISHR’s Director of Capacity Building Selection involves rigorous due diligence to ensure candidates’ alignment with program goals Additional Information Late submissions are not accepted, even in the case of technical issues ISHR encourages applicants to review the FAQ page for guidance on eligibility and application procedures Technical questions not addressed in the FAQ can be sent to ishr@columbia.edu Benefits Participants gain: Enhanced advocacy and leadership skills Exposure to international human rights networks Mentorship and capacity-building opportunities Practical training in program design, monitoring, and evaluation This program empowers advocates to drive meaningful change in human rights policy and practice globally. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY 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 hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official 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.