UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples 2027 – Funded Participation in UN Indigenous Rights Meetings

Overview

The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples invites applications from Indigenous individuals and representatives of Indigenous Peoples organizations to take part in two major human rights meetings taking place in 2027. This initiative supports participants in representing their communities and contributing to international advocacy concerning Indigenous Peoples rights. Selected candidates may receive funding to attend either the twenty-sixth session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York, scheduled for May 2027, or the twentieth session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Geneva, scheduled for July 2027.

Who can apply

Applications are open to Indigenous individuals and representatives of Indigenous Peoples organizations who are actively involved in promoting and protecting Indigenous rights. Eligible candidates must require financial assistance for travel and accommodation, demonstrate a clear connection to the community or organization they represent, and be able to explain how their participation will strengthen advocacy. Applications from Indigenous persons with disabilities and Indigenous 2SLGBTQ+ persons receive particular encouragement.

What you get

Selected participants receive financial support administered in accordance with United Nations rules and procedures. The funding covers travel arrangements to attend the chosen meeting, accommodation expenses, and related participation costs. Support is intended for individuals who have relevant experience in advocacy but lack the financial resources to attend international meetings independently.

Requirements

Applicants must submit the official online application form along with a recent curriculum vitae, a copy of their passport, and a recommendation letter from the Indigenous organization, community, non-governmental organization, or non-profit institution they represent. Submissions are assessed based on representation, relevance to human rights issues and the chosen UN mechanism, potential impact on advocacy, previous engagement and preparedness, and demonstrated financial need.

How to apply

Interested candidates must complete the official online application system in English, Spanish, or French. Applications sent by email are not accepted, and incomplete or late submissions will not be considered. Applicants must ensure all required documents are uploaded before the closing time.

Key dates

The application deadline is 8 November 2026 at 23:59 Geneva time. The meetings covered by the funding take place on 10 to 21 May 2027 in New York for the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and on 12 to 16 July 2027 in Geneva for the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.