The Frank Jennings Fellowship 2026–2027, offered by Front Line Defenders, is a prestigious early-career opportunity designed for individuals seeking practical experience in the human rights sector. This 12.5-month fellowship combines training, field exposure, and institutional engagement across Dublin, Ireland, and Geneva, Switzerland.
The programme is structured to provide hands-on experience working with human rights defenders (HRDs) and international human rights mechanisms, particularly within the United Nations system.
Programme Structure and Learning Experience
The fellowship is divided into three distinct phases, offering a blend of training and applied experience:
- Initial Phase (3.5 months in Dublin)
Fellows begin at the headquarters of Front Line Defenders, where they receive training on:- Human rights defenders and their protection needs
- The UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders
- The mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur
- International protection mechanisms and advocacy strategies
- International Placement (6 months in Geneva)
Fellows transition to an internship with Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, gaining direct exposure to UN processes and global human rights monitoring systems. - Final Phase (3 months in Dublin)
Fellows return to Dublin to consolidate learning and contribute to ongoing organisational work.
This structure ensures a comprehensive understanding of both grassroots advocacy and high-level international human rights systems.
Fellows will undertake a variety of responsibilities depending on their placement phase.
While in Dublin
- Supporting Protection Coordinators in communication with human rights defenders
- Assisting in drafting urgent appeals on behalf of at-risk individuals
- Maintaining and updating internal databases
- Contributing to reports, briefings, and documentation
- Supporting follow-up on ongoing human rights cases
While in Geneva (OHCHR)
- Monitoring global human rights situations, especially concerning defenders
- Drafting communications and urgent appeals to governments
- Analysing government responses to human rights allegations
- Supporting preparation of reports for the Human Rights Council and General Assembly
- Assisting in preparations for official missions of the UN Special Rapporteur
- Liaising with NGOs and civil society organisations
This dual exposure enables fellows to develop both operational and analytical expertise.
Benefits and Compensation
The fellowship offers a competitive and supportive package designed to enable full participation:
- Annual stipend of €30,629
- 13 days of annual leave during the Dublin phase
- Flights between Dublin and Geneva
- Health and travel insurance coverage
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme
- Monthly well-being support while in Dublin
During the Geneva placement, conditions are governed by OHCHR internship regulations.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet strict academic, professional, and language requirements.
Academic and Professional Requirements
- Recent graduates or candidates within one year of completing a degree
- Fields of study include:
- Human rights
- Social sciences
- Development studies
- Humanitarian studies or related disciplines
Skills and Competencies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent drafting and analytical abilities
- Ability to synthesise complex information into concise outputs
- Solid administrative and organisational skills
- Computer literacy
Language Requirements
- Native or near-native English proficiency
- Fluency in either Spanish or French (mandatory)
Additional Requirements
- Basic knowledge of the UN system and international human rights law
- Legal eligibility to work in both Ireland and Switzerland for the full duration of the fellowship
Application Process and Deadline
Interested candidates must submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A tailored cover letter
Applications must be submitted via the official recruitment platform of Front Line Defenders.
Key deadline:
- 14 April 2026 (midnight Irish time)
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, and candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Hans Thoolen on Human Rights Defenders and their awards 
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