The UN Human Rights Office is bringing twelve young changemakers into the heart of its newest global initiative, the Global Alliance for Human Rights, through the Youth4Rights Advisory Group. The group gives young people a direct and structured role in shaping how human rights are communicated, mobilized, and centered in public life worldwide, including in the lead-up to the 80th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 2028.
About the Youth4Rights Advisory Group Program
Established by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Youth4Rights Advisory Group sits within the Global Alliance for Human Rights, a broad initiative designed to bring human rights into the center of leadership, public debate, and everyday life across all regions. The Advisory Group connects the Alliance’s work to the lived realities and creative energy of young people, giving them a formal voice in how the initiative develops. Members are expected to contribute around eight hours per month and the initial mandate runs from August 12, 2026 through December 31, 2027.
Funding Size
- This is a voluntary advisory role; no financial stipend is provided
- OHCHR covers expenses related to official meetings and engagements where applicable
Who Can Apply
- Young people aged 18 to 29 years at the time of application
- A minimum of two years of experience contributing to human rights or a related cause at the local or national level
- Working-level proficiency in English
- Human rights-specific expertise is not required; advocates, entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders are all encouraged to apply
- Open to applicants from all regions, with selection designed to reflect gender, age, geographic, ethnic, and cultural balance
Geographic Eligibility
- Open globally
- Applications are accepted from young people in all countries and regions
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Sector or Thematic Focus
- Human rights advocacy and civic mobilization
- Youth-led social change and innovation
- Dialogue, inclusion, and intergenerational engagement
- Public communication of human rights values
- Contribution to the Global Alliance for Human Rights and the 2028 UDHR 80th anniversary
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through the OHCHR official application portal before the deadline. The form requires personal information, a description of the applicant’s human rights-related experience, and responses to motivation questions. Only fully completed applications will be considered.
Required Materials
- Completed online application form
- Description of at least two years of relevant experience in human rights or a related field
- Motivation statement demonstrating commitment and vision for the role
Key Dates
- Application deadline: 21 June 2026, 23:59 CET
- Mandate start: 12 August 2026
- Mandate end: 31 December 2027
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Selection Notes
- Twelve members will be selected with deliberate attention to gender, age, geographic, ethnic, and cultural diversity
- Prior formal human rights training or expertise is not a requirement; the program values diverse forms of changemaking
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted following the review period