Applications are now open for the UN Biodiversity Conference 2026 Fellowship, a fully funded opportunity for journalists from around the world to attend and report on one of the most important global environmental events of the year.
The fellowship will support selected journalists in covering the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17), which will take place from October 19 to 30, 2026, in Yerevan, Armenia. The program is organized by the Earth Journalism Network (EJN) and aims to strengthen global media coverage of biodiversity, conservation, and environmental policy issues.
This fully funded fellowship will provide journalists with direct access to conference proceedings, expert briefings, and networking opportunities with policymakers, researchers, and environmental leaders from around the world.
UN Biodiversity Conference 2026 Fellowship Details
- Host Organization: Earth Journalism Network (EJN)
- Conference: UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17)
- Location: Yerevan, Armenia
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Conference Dates: October 19–30, 2026
- Application Deadline: June 29, 2026
About the Fellowship
The fellowship is designed to help journalists produce impactful stories on biodiversity conservation, environmental challenges, and international policy discussions taking place during COP17.
Selected participants will receive support before, during, and after the conference, including mentorship from experienced environmental journalists and biodiversity experts. Fellows will be expected to report on major developments, negotiations, and outcomes from the conference to increase public awareness of global biodiversity issues.
The program also seeks to improve the quality and reach of environmental journalism, particularly in regions where biodiversity reporting is underrepresented.
Financial Benefits
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive funding, including:
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Accommodation in Armenia
- Meals during the fellowship period
- Travel medical insurance
- Local transportation related to fellowship activities
- Reimbursement of visa expenses
- Editorial and logistical support from EJN
- Access to expert briefings, workshops, and mentorship opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must:
- Be professional journalists working with recognized media outlets or freelance journalists with a strong portfolio of published work
- Be citizens of low- or middle-income countries, according to World Bank classifications
- Have previous experience covering environmental, biodiversity, conservation, climate, or related topics
- Demonstrate a clear and compelling reporting plan for COP17
- Be available to attend the conference in person in Yerevan, Armenia
- Submit their application in English
- Provide samples of relevant published journalism
Required Documents
Applicants may be asked to provide the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Samples of published environmental or biodiversity-related work
- Letter of support from an editor or media organization (where applicable)
- Valid passport details
- Additional supporting documents requested in the application form
Why Apply?
The UN Biodiversity Conference Fellowship offers journalists a rare opportunity to report directly from a major international environmental summit.
Participants will gain valuable exposure to global biodiversity discussions, interact with leading experts and policymakers, receive professional mentorship, and produce stories that help inform audiences about critical environmental issues affecting the planet.
For journalists passionate about environmental reporting, this fellowship provides both financial support and a powerful platform to amplify important biodiversity stories on a global scale.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must complete the online application form on the official Earth Journalism Network website and submit all required documents before the application deadline.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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