Deadline: 31 October 2025
Events:
- 25th Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII): 20 April–1 May 2026, New York, USA
- 19th Session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP): 13–17 July 2026, Geneva, Switzerland
Overview
The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples (UNVFII) invites applications from Indigenous individuals and representatives of Indigenous organizations seeking financial support to participate in UNPFII 2026 and EMRIP 2026. Funding may cover travel, accommodation, and related participation costs. Applications from LGBTIQ+ persons and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged.
Who Should Apply
You are an ideal candidate if you:
- Are actively engaged in promoting and protecting Indigenous Peoples’ rights.
- Can demonstrate how your participation will strengthen advocacy for your community or organization.
- Require financial support to attend (limited or no access to alternative funding).
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed on:
- Representation – Priority to those with a clear mandate from their community/organization.
- Relevance – Proven involvement in human rights issues affecting Indigenous Peoples.
- Impact – The potential influence of your participation on advocacy, policy, and community outcomes.
- Need – Financial need and lack of other funding sources.
Benefits of Participation
- Direct engagement with UN mechanisms that influence global Indigenous rights policy.
- Opportunities to advocate, network, and share community priorities with member states, UN agencies, and civil society.
- Strengthened visibility for community issues and potential for follow-up action at national and regional levels.
Key Dates
- Applications close: 31 October 2025
- UNPFII 2026: 20 April–1 May 2026 (New York, USA)
- EMRIP 2026: 13–17 July 2026 (Geneva, Switzerland)
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Complete the online form: https://survey.ohchr.org/395493?lang=en
- Upload the required documents:
- Latest CV (include roles, advocacy experience, language skills).
- Passport copy (valid through at least January 2027 recommended for visa/booking buffers).
- Letter of nomination/recommendation from the executive of your Indigenous organization or community (on letterhead if available; include contact details).
- Submit before 23:59 (your local time) on 31 October 2025.
- Monitor your email for any follow-up from UNVFII.
Contact for queries: Morse Caoagas Flores, Secretary, UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples — morse.flores@un.org
Strong Application Tips
- Show mandate & legitimacy: Attach a nomination letter that clearly states your role and community authorization.
- Be specific on impact: Describe how attendance will advance concrete advocacy goals (e.g., submissions, side events, national follow-up).
- Demonstrate need: Briefly outline why alternative funding isn’t available.
- Align with agendas: Reference UNPFII/EMRIP themes, Indigenous rights instruments (e.g., UNDRIP), and country-specific issues you will raise.
- Plan for dissemination: Explain how you’ll report back (community meetings, policy briefs, radio/social media updates).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible? Indigenous individuals and representatives of Indigenous organizations actively engaged in Indigenous rights advocacy who need financial support to attend.
Can I apply to attend both UNPFII and EMRIP? Yes. Indicate your relevance and expected contributions for each event.
What costs can be covered? UNVFII may cover travel, accommodation, and related participation expenses. Final coverage depends on available funds.
Do I need a nomination letter? Yes. A nomination or recommendation from your Indigenous organization/community leadership is required.
What if my passport will expire soon? Renew as early as possible. Aim for 6+ months validity after July 2026.
Are LGBTIQ+ persons and persons with disabilities encouraged to apply? Yes. Applications are particularly encouraged.
How will selections be made? Based on representation, relevance, impact, and financial need.
Quick Summary
- Programme: UNVFII Travel Support
- Apply by: 31 Oct 2025
- Events: UNPFII (Apr–May 2026, NYC) & EMRIP (Jul 2026, Geneva)
- Who: Indigenous individuals/organization reps
- Support: Travel, accommodation, related costs
- Apply: https://survey.ohchr.org/395493?lang=en
- Contact: morse.flores@un.org
- Source for more info: https://www.ohchr.org/en/about-us/funding-budget/indigenous-peoples-fund/call-applications