Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: December 1, 2025
The Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP) 2026/2027 at Columbia University, New York, is now open for applications. Organized by the Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR), HRAP is a globally recognized fellowship that strengthens the capacity of experienced human rights leaders from around the world.
This program offers a unique academic and professional platform for advocates to deepen their knowledge, build international networks, and develop strategies to advance human rights in their home countries. Since its launch in 1989, HRAP has supported more than 300 advocates from over 85 countries.
Benefits
Funding
- ISHR welcome applications from qualified human rights advocates from all regions of the world.
- After ISHR conducts its stringent selection process, it makes every effort to secure funding for shortlisted Advocates to attend the program. In certain cases where ISHR cannot secure funding, shortlisted Advocates may be asked to secure the funds needed for them to be admitted to the program.
SEE ALSO: French Government 2025 “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity” Human Rights Prize
Eligibility Criteria
- Advocates must work at the grassroots level. Applicants from high-income countries will not be considered except for those representing marginalized communities. (See the Frequently Asked Questions for more information about this requirement). Fluency in English is required. Preference is given to those who have not previously had opportunities to travel and study internationally. A bachelor’s degree is preferred but not required.
- Advocates must provide proof of institutional endorsement in English from their organizations for their participation in the Program and must commit to returning to that organization upon completion of the Program.
Application Process and Documents Required
- The Program is designed for human rights activists working with NGOs on issues including sexual and gender-based violence, minority rights, LGBTQI+ rights, labor rights, indigenous peoples’ rights, migration, health, social exclusion, environmental justice, disability rights, and corporate social accountability.
- Participants are selected on the basis of their work experience in human rights, commitment to the human rights field, and demonstrated ability to pursue graduate-level studies. Full-time students, academics, or government officials will not be considered. Applicants holding full-time jobs pursuing their advocacy efforts are preferred.
