Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
The Minority Rights Group offers a free six-week online course on minority rights and freedom of religion for civil society representatives and human rights defenders in South, Southeast, and Central Asia. Participants gain knowledge of international and regional human rights mechanisms, practical advocacy skills, and mentorship from experts.
About the Training
This intensive six-week online course focuses on minority rights and the protection of freedom of religion or belief. It is designed to equip civil society representatives and human rights defenders with knowledge and practical skills to advocate for religious minorities in the region.
Key Focus Areas
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Minority rights and protection frameworks
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Freedom of religion or belief
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International human rights mechanisms (including the UN)
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Regional human rights mechanisms (including ASEAN)
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Practical advocacy strategies for religious minorities
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include:
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Representatives of civil society organizations
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Human rights defenders
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Activists from the following countries: Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand
Requirements:
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Basic working knowledge of human rights
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Interest in freedom of religion or belief issues
Course Structure
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Duration: Six weeks
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Start Date: 4 May 2026
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Weekly Commitment: Approximately 3 hours
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Mode: Online via password-protected platform
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Components:
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Guided learning modules
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Interactive exercises and discussion forums
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One-on-one mentoring with expert tutors
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Live webinar with high-level human rights experts, possibly including UN Special Rapporteurs
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Mentorship & Support
Participants receive continuous guidance from an expert tutor, including one-on-one mentoring sessions to enhance understanding and application of minority rights advocacy.
Interactive Learning
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Short exercises to reinforce key concepts
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Online discussion forums to share insights and experiences
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Live expert webinars with Q&A opportunities
Cost and Accessibility
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Participation is completely free of charge
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Fully online delivery allows flexible access to course materials
Why It Matters
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Strengthens participants’ knowledge of minority rights and freedom of religion
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Provides tools and strategies for effective advocacy at national, regional, and international levels
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Facilitates engagement with human rights experts and networking with regional peers
How to Apply
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Confirm eligibility as a civil society representative, human rights defender, or activist from an eligible country
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Ensure basic knowledge of human rights and interest in freedom of religion issues
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Submit application according to the program’s instructions before the deadline
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Participate in the six-week online course starting 4 May 2026
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying without meeting eligibility criteria (e.g., non-civil society participants)
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Failing to demonstrate interest in minority rights or freedom of religion
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Overlooking required online participation commitment
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the course? Civil society representatives, human rights defenders, and activists from South, Southeast, and Central Asia.
2. Is there a fee to participate? No, the course is completely free.
3. When does the course start? 4 May 2026.
4. How long is the course? Six weeks with approximately three hours per week.
5. What support is provided? Expert tutoring, one-on-one mentoring, interactive exercises, and live webinars with human rights experts.
6. Can participants access the course materials anytime? Yes, materials are online and accessible at flexible times.
7. Does the course provide funding? No, the program provides training only, not financial grants.
Conclusion
The Minority Rights Group online course empowers human rights defenders and civil society representatives in South, Southeast, and Central Asia to strengthen advocacy for minority rights and freedom of religion. Through expert guidance, interactive learning, and mentorship, participants develop the skills and networks needed to create meaningful impact in their communities.
For more information, visit Minority Rights Group.