Youth-led organizations and networks working on chemicals, waste management, environmental health, and pollution-related issues are invited to apply for a unique opportunity to help design and organize youth engagement activities at the first International Conference of the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC IC-1).

The initiative seeks organizations to join the Youth Events Preparatory Group, which will play a central role in shaping the Youth Forum on Chemicals and Waste and related youth-focused activities ahead of the global conference scheduled for November 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland.

About the Opportunity

The Youth Events Preparatory Group will support the planning, strategic direction, and implementation of youth-led activities connected to GFC IC-1. Participants will contribute ideas, coordinate outreach efforts, and help ensure meaningful youth participation in discussions surrounding chemical safety, waste management, and pollution prevention.

The conference will take place under the themes:

• Tracking Progress
• Accelerating Action
• Investing for Impact

The accompanying Youth Forum is expected to be held from 14–16 November 2026, immediately before the main conference.

About the Global Framework on Chemicals

The Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC) is an international policy framework adopted in 2023 to advance a world free from harm caused by chemicals and waste. It brings together governments, civil society, academia, youth groups, and the private sector to improve chemical safety and reduce pollution risks through coordinated global action.

The framework addresses issues including:

• Hazardous chemicals
• Pesticide management
• Industrial pollution
• Endocrine-disrupting substances
• Pharmaceutical contaminants
• Sustainable chemical production and disposal

Role of the Youth Events Preparatory Group

Selected organizations will help:

• Guide the overall design of youth engagement activities
• Contribute to planning and delivery of the Youth Forum on Chemicals and Waste
• Support global outreach to young people and youth-led organizations
• Promote youth participation in GFC IC-1 processes
• Showcase youth-led innovations and solutions
• Develop communications materials and event outputs
• Strengthen collaboration among youth stakeholders worldwide

Ideal Candidates

Priority may be given to organizations that demonstrate:

• Experience working on chemicals, waste, pollution, or environmental health issues
• Engagement with international environmental policy processes
• Connections to youth movements and communities
• Expertise in advocacy, science, policy, education, communications, or community mobilization
• Representation of underrepresented regions, communities, and perspectives

Important Note

Participation in the Youth Events Preparatory Group does not automatically guarantee attendance at the International Conference or the Youth Forum in Geneva. Separate participation processes may apply for conference attendance.

Youth-led organizations interested in strengthening youth voices within global chemicals and waste governance are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest before the deadline.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 10 July 2026 (23:59 UTC).

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply now.