UNNF Fellowship Programme on Ocean Affairs & the Law of the Sea – 2026 Cohort

The UNNF Fellowship Programme, organized by the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) and funded by the Nippon Foundation, offers an advanced, fully funded opportunity for mid-career professionals from developing states. The program supports ocean policy implementation, maritime conservation, and marine governance in line with UNCLOS and the 2030 Agenda.

Programme Structure & Duration

The 2026 Fellowship spans nine months, structured in two key phases:

1. Phase One (3 months): Training at UN Headquarters, New York (March–June 2026), focusing on international legal frameworks in ocean governance.

2. Phase Two (6 months): Research placement at a renowned academic institution (July–December 2026).
   

Benefits & Support

The Fellowship provides:

• A monthly stipend

• Travel expenses

• Health insurance

• Access to rigorous professional and academic mentorship
  

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be aged between 25 and 45

• Hold a first university degree or equivalent

• Have advanced academic and research capability

• Be mid-level government officials or professionals working in areas such as maritime law, ocean policy, environmental science, or related fields

• Come from a developing country and be fully committed to the Fellowship without overlapping obligations

Application Process & Deadline

• Deadline: 14 September 2025

• Complete the required application forms (available on the official site) and submit them—including passport biodata—to: [email protected]

• Additionally, fill out the online application form via the designated link on the programme site
  

Why It Matters

• Empowers leaders from developing states with expert knowledge on ocean governance and maritime law.

• Strengthens global capacity for implementing UNCLOS, SDG 14, and sustainable ocean management.

• Provides access to world-class UN and academic institutions, expanding professional networks and influence.