Applications are now open for the UN Biodiversity Conference 2026 (COP17) in Yerevan, Armenia. Organized by the Earth Journalism Network (EJN), this fully funded fellowship offers journalists from around the world the opportunity to attend and report on one of the most important global events focused on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17) will take place from 19–30 October 2026 in Yerevan, Armenia. Selected fellows will receive full financial support to cover their participation, including international airfare, accommodation, meals, insurance, visa reimbursement, and mentorship from experienced environmental journalists.
There is no application fee, making this an excellent opportunity for journalists interested in biodiversity, climate change, environmental policy, and conservation reporting.
Quick Overview
Host Country: Armenia
Location: Yerevan
Host Organization: Earth Journalism Network (EJN)
Conference: UN Biodiversity Conference (COP17)
Program Type: Journalism Fellowship
Funding: Fully Funded
Conference Dates: 19–30 October 2026
Application Deadline: 29 June 2026
About the Fellowship
The Earth Journalism Network Fellowship supports journalists in covering the negotiations, discussions, and major outcomes of the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP17).
Participants will receive professional mentoring before, during, and after the conference while producing high-quality journalism that raises public awareness about biodiversity conservation and environmental policy.
The fellowship aims to strengthen global reporting on biodiversity issues and ensure that important decisions made during COP17 reach audiences around the world.
Financial Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
💰 Round-trip economy airfare
💰 Accommodation in Armenia
💰 Meals during the fellowship
💰 Travel medical insurance
💰 Local transportation related to the fellowship
💰 Visa cost reimbursement
💰 Editorial and logistical support from EJN
💰 Access to expert briefings and mentorship
Fellowship Objectives
The program seeks to:
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is designed for:
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
Why Apply?
The fellowship offers participants the opportunity to:
How to Apply
Step 1
Visit the official Earth Journalism Network application portal.
Step 2
Complete the online application form.
Step 3
Prepare and upload all required documents.
Step 4
Submit your reporting proposal and published work samples.
Step 5
Submit your application before 29 June 2026.
Official Website
Earth Journalism Network (EJN)
UN Biodiversity Conference (COP17)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Professional journalists and experienced freelance journalists from eligible countries.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive comprehensive financial support.
Is there an application fee?
No. The application is completely free.
What expenses are covered?
The fellowship covers airfare, accommodation, meals, insurance, local transportation, visa reimbursement, mentorship, and editorial support.
Where will the conference take place?
The conference will be held in Yerevan, Armenia.
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on 29 June 2026.
Final Thoughts
The UN Biodiversity Conference 2026 Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for journalists to report from one of the world’s most significant biodiversity events while receiving full financial support. Participants will gain firsthand access to global policy discussions, connect with leading experts, and produce impactful stories that help raise awareness about biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Interested journalists are encouraged to submit their applications before the 29 June 2026 deadline.
