Call for The Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP) 2026–27 is open now!!!
The program is hosted by the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), is now inviting applications for the 2026–27 cohort. This prestigious program harnesses the extensive academic resources of Columbia University, along with the rich network of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international institutions located in New York City, to provide human rights advocates with a comprehensive framework for professional development. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of educational activities, including in-depth seminars, university-level courses, skill-building workshops led by renowned experts in the field, and networking meetings with influential policymakers and funders. The goal of these engagements is to refine advocacy strategies, enhance critical skills, and develop concrete plans for future human rights initiatives.
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HRAP is meticulously designed for seasoned grassroots human rights activists who are currently working with NGOs on pressing issues such as sexual and gender-based violence, the rights of minority and indigenous populations, LGBTQI+ rights, labor and migration concerns, health equity and social inclusion, environmental justice, disability rights, and corporate accountability. It is essential to note that full-time students, academic staff, and government officials are not eligible to apply to this program. Preference will be granted to advocates who are currently employed by NGOs and who may have had limited access to opportunities for international study and professional development. Applicants are required to demonstrate fluency in English, secure institutional endorsement from their respective organizations, and express a commitment to return to their roles in their organizations after completing the program.
Established in 1989, HRAP takes advantage of Columbia University’s resources and New York City’s vibrant ecosystem of NGOs and international organizations to furnish human rights advocates with valuable academic knowledge, skill enhancement, mentoring opportunities, and essential networking avenues. ISHR warmly welcomes applications from qualified human rights advocates from every region of the globe, ensuring a diverse representation of perspectives and experiences.
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The program will include an online component scheduled for November and December 2026, followed by an immersive on-campus session from mid-January to mid-May 2027. Candidates who are shortlisted will undergo a thorough due diligence process and interviews to assess their suitability for the program. ISHR is committed to seeking funding for finalists; however, some shortlisted candidates may additionally be required to identify and secure external financial support to cover their program participation costs.
Benefits
- Intensive seminars, university courses, and skills workshops with leading human rights organizations
- Mentoring, networking, and meetings with policymakers and funders
- Access to Columbia University resources and NYC’s human rights ecosystem
- ISHR strives to secure funding for shortlisted candidates; in some cases, applicants may need to self-fund all/part of the costs
Eligibilities
- Grassroots NGO advocates working on the listed human rights themes
- Fluency in English
- Ability to engage at a graduate-level
- Full-time students, academics, or government officials are not eligible (advocates holding full-time NGO roles are preferred)
- Applicants from high-income countries must represent marginalized communities
- Institutional endorsement (in English) from the applicant’s organization and a commitment to return post-program
- Preference for those with limited prior international opportunities
Application Process
- Create an account on the ISHR website and log in.
- From the menu, select “Start/Resume a HRAP Application.”
- Complete all sections in English; you may save drafts and edit after submission until the deadline (use Manage HRAP Submission).
- Submit by December 1, 2025 (11:59 pm ET); you’ll receive an email confirmation.
Required Documents
- Completed online application (all materials in English)
- Two signed letters of recommendation (with email/phone; e-signatures accepted; not the institutional endorsement letter)
- Proof of institutional endorsement (in English) from your organization, confirming support and your return after HRAP
- University diploma and transcript (highest degree, if any)
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (11 Days Remaining)
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