Are you a young human rights advocate passionate about promoting youth rights, especially in contexts of conflict and insecurity? The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and Education Above All (EAA) invite you to apply for the Youth Rights Academy, a fully funded program taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 7 to 11, 2025.
This unique opportunity aims to empower young advocates with knowledge, tools, and networks to strengthen their human rights work. Participants will explore key concepts and frameworks related to youth rights and gain hands-on advocacy training to effect change in their communities.
About the Youth Rights Academy
The Youth Rights Academy builds on the momentum of a collaborative project initiated by OHCHR, EAA, and Silatech in 2021 to empower young people in vulnerable situations, including those affected by conflict and insecurity. Through this project, the Youth Empowerment System (YES) toolkit was developed and is now actively used in various countries and regions to support youth-led human rights initiatives.
The 2025 Youth Rights Academy will bring together experts from the UN, civil society organizations, and youth leaders. The program will focus on capacity-building, knowledge exchange, and leveraging international human rights mechanisms for advocacy.
What to Expect
Participants will:
Engage in interactive sessions with renowned trainers and keynote speakers.
Participate in peer-to-peer learning and intercultural exchange.
Learn to apply international human rights frameworks to their advocacy efforts.
Gain tools to design and implement impactful community-based human rights initiatives.
Costs Covered: The program is fully funded, covering travel and accommodation in Geneva for all selected participants.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
Be between 18 and 30 years old (as of July 7, 2025).
Have at least two years of experience advocating for human rights, particularly youth rights.
Provide a reference letter (template available).
Demonstrate proficiency in English (the program will be conducted exclusively in English).
Special consideration will be given to young people with lived experience of conflict or insecurity and those with limited prior exposure to global platforms.
Application Process
The selection process includes:
Submission of an online application, including a CV, reference letter, and responses to substantive questions.
A follow-up task (e.g., a short video or written response) for long-listed candidates.
Final interviews with shortlisted candidates.
Apply here: Application Form
Deadline: January 12, 2025
About the Organizers
OHCHR and EAA have a long-standing commitment to empowering youth as agents of change. This Academy represents the culmination of their ongoing project to equip young advocates with skills, knowledge, and tools to advance youth rights globally.
Take advantage of this transformative experience to enhance your advocacy journey and contribute to meaningful societal change.
Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYmC_0DDeJtfA651kS6ILuMZpUXmXSbO7FpPuNFfOo–cCcQ/viewform
