UNCCD COP17 Media Reporting Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity for Journalists

The UNCCD COP17 Media Reporting Fellowship 2026 is a prestigious fully funded opportunity for journalists to cover one of the world’s most important environmental conferences. Organized by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in collaboration with global partners, the fellowship supports media professionals reporting on land degradation, drought, and climate challenges.

Selected fellows will attend the UNCCD COP17 conference in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, gaining direct access to global policymakers, experts, and communities working on environmental solutions.

Key Highlights

• Fully funded fellowship for journalists
• Participation in UNCCD COP17 in Mongolia
• Event dates: 17–28 August 2026
• Pre-COP virtual briefings with experts
• Field visit opportunities in Mongolia
• Access to global environmental leaders and policymakers

What the Fellowship Covers

The fellowship provides comprehensive support to selected participants.

• Round-trip international airfare to Mongolia
• Accommodation during COP17
• Official media accreditation
• Participation in training and expert briefings
• Field visit to engage with local communities

Fellowship Objectives

The program aims to strengthen global reporting on land and drought-related challenges, which are often underreported despite their major impact on food security, water resources, and economic stability.

• Promote awareness of land degradation and drought issues
• Encourage solution-focused journalism
• Highlight global and local environmental challenges
• Support high-quality storytelling on sustainability

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet professional journalism standards.

• Professional journalists (staff or freelance)
• Affiliated with a recognized media outlet
• Strong track record in environment, climate, or development reporting
• Based in regions affected by land degradation or drought
• Strong English communication skills
• Ability to produce impactful stories

Fellowship Requirements

Selected fellows are expected to actively contribute through reporting.

• Participate in pre-COP training sessions
• Attend and report from COP17
• Publish at least three stories:
  • One before the conference
  • One during the conference
  • One after the conference
• At least one story must focus on solutions related to land restoration or drought resilience

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following documents.

• Three samples of published work
• Letter from editor confirming publication support
• Story proposal outlining three potential stories
• CV or resume
• Information about media outlet reach and audience

Important Dates

• Applications open: 16 March 2026
• Application deadline: 15 April 2026
• Selected fellows announced: End of April 2026
• Fellowship activities: May to August 2026

Why You Should Apply

This fellowship offers a rare opportunity for journalists to report on global environmental issues at an international platform.

• Gain international exposure and credibility
• Access exclusive global policy discussions
• Build networks with global experts and media professionals
• Contribute to impactful environmental storytelling

Final Thoughts

The UNCCD COP17 Media Reporting Fellowship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for journalists passionate about climate, environment, and development reporting. With full funding, global exposure, and access to one of the world’s leading environmental conferences, it stands out as a top journalism fellowship in 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare strong story proposals and apply before the deadline to maximize their chances of selection.