Columbia University’s Institute for the Study of Human Rights’ is accepting applications for the 2013 Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP). HRAP is a a capacity building program designed to strengthen the skills, knowledge, and networks of proven human rights defenders at the grassroots level.
HRAP leverages the resources of Columbia University and those offered by New York City as a center of NGOs and international organizations to provide proven grassroots leaders with critical skills-building and networking opportunities. Through workshops, seminars, participation in University classes and other activities as well as meetings with policy makers and potential funders, Advocates share their experiences, reflect critically on their strategies, and plan future campaigns. More than 250 advocates from over 80 countries have participated in this program since 1989. The cumulative reach of HRAP participants is extraordinary: alumni have worked with organizations whose memberships range from the thousands to the millions.
HRAP focuses both on strengthening the skills of the individual Advocates and providing the tools for them to build sustainable organizations that advocate for disadvantaged peoples.
To meet HRAP’s goals, Advocates are expected to participate fully in the offerings provided by HRAP, including:
- Skills workshops on advocacy planning and strategies, fundraising, press and media, and building sustainable organizations;
- Columbia University courses on human rights, public health, the environment, development, and labor rights;
- Meetings and networking opportunities with NGO staff, activists, policymakers, representatives of international institutions, and academics.
The Program is designed for lawyers, journalists, doctors, teachers, social workers, community organizers, and other human rights activists working with NGOs on issues including sexual and gender-based violence, domestic violence, minority rights, LGBT rights, labor rights, migration, health, social exclusion, environmental justice, and corporate social accountability.
ISHR makes every effort to provide full fellowships to cover program costs as well as travel and housing. A reasonable stipend is also provided to cover basic costs. ISHR staff will work with interested candidates who have been wait listed for the Program to identify potential funding sources in cases where ISHR has not secured the resources to provide a full fellowship.
Completed applications are due by 11:59pm GMT on Friday, November 16, 2012. For more information, visit this link.
