Fully Funded: Apply to Join the COP17 Youth Delegation in Yerevan, Armenia | GYBN 2026
If you are a young person passionate about the environment, biodiversity, and making your voice heard on the global stage — this is your moment.
The Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) is calling for applications from young people worldwide to join the international Youth Delegation to COP17 — the 17th Meeting of the Conference of Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), taking place in Yerevan, Armenia. (Contest360) And the best part? It is fully funded.
What Is COP17?
In October 2026, Armenia will host the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) — a landmark event that will place Armenia at the centre of global biodiversity diplomacy and highlight its unique role as a Caucasus biodiversity hotspot.
The COP17 conference will bring together representatives of nearly 200 countries, along with international organizations, scientists, indigenous groups, civil society, and youth advocates. The event is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted in 2022.
In short: COP17 is one of the most important environmental gatherings on the planet — and GYBN is opening the door for young people to be right in the middle of it.
Who Is GYBN?
The Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) serves as the official coordination platform for youth participation in processes related to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It works to strengthen meaningful youth engagement in biodiversity policy, advocacy, and implementation efforts at local, national, and international levels.
Through this delegation, selected participants will join the international youth delegation to COP17, contribute to global biodiversity discussions, and strengthen youth participation in the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
What Will You Gain?
-This is not just a conference trip — it is a career-defining experience. As a selected delegate, you will:
-Engage directly in international biodiversity negotiations and policy discussions
-Network with youth leaders from around the world and strengthen advocacy, campaigning, and lobbying skills
-Build knowledge of the CBD process, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), and National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs)
-Participate in capacity-building and preparatory activities before COP17
-Access accreditation to observe and contribute to UN-level negotiations
What Does the Funding Cover?
-Subject to funding confirmation, selected participants may receive support covering accommodation, food expenses, local transportation, visa costs, and accreditation for COP17 participation.
-GYBN is currently in an advanced stage of fundraising, and this call is designed to pre-select candidates so that preparation, visa processes, and planning can begin early.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years of age on October 14, 2026, demonstrate a strong commitment to biodiversity-related issues, possess at least a basic understanding of international negotiations, and be willing to actively participate in preparation activities before COP17. Applications must be submitted in English.
-Country/Regional Eligibility: This opportunity is open to young people worldwide. There are no country restrictions — applicants from Nigeria, Africa, and across the globe are eligible to apply.
Important Dates
Here is a full timeline of the programme:
-Application Deadline: June 30, 2026 (11:59 PM UTC)
-Arrival in Yerevan: October 16, 2026 (to be confirmed)
-COP17 Youth Forum: October 17–18, 2026
-CBD COP17 Conference: October 19–30, 2026
-Post-COP Youth Follow-Up Meeting: November 1, 2026
-Departure from Yerevan: November 2, 2026 (to be confirmed)
What You Need to Submit
Applicants must submit a completed application form, a CV of 1–2 pages, and a passport copy. Applicants without a passport may upload another official document showing their name and date of birth.
File names should follow the format: LASTNAME_FIRSTNAME_CV.pdf and LASTNAME_FIRSTNAME_ID.pdf
Important Notes Before You Apply
This application is only for candidates seeking both funding and accreditation from GYBN for in-person participation. A separate application process will be announced for self-funded participants seeking accreditation only. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by email. Applications completed entirely with AI-generated responses may be disqualified — applicants are expected to submit authentic responses reflecting their own experiences and motivations.
Apply using the link below 👇🏼
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBaOQsGwgqZXXWTQoUEc4RKR1SEqh7MDFZxeebgREorHdgbQ/viewform
The deadline is June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM UTC. Do not wait until the last minute — prepare your CV and documents now.
A Word to Young Nigerians and African Youth
The world table is being set, and African voices need to be at it. Biodiversity loss is not an abstract global issue — it is happening in our forests, rivers, and farmlands. If you have been working on environmental causes, advocacy, or community development, this is your opportunity to take that work to the highest level of international dialogue.
Apply. Your voice belongs in that room.
Organised by: Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) | Supported by: IKI, GIZ, WWF, UN Environment Programme, and the Federal Ministry for the Environment of Germany
