The Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) is inviting youth from around the world to participate in the second resumed sessions of the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which will take place from February 25-27, 2025, in Rome, Italy.

The main objective of this delegation is to give young individuals, aged 18-35 and working on biodiversity issues, an opportunity to advocate for biodiversity and rights-based approaches at COP16. The program aims to empower youth by allowing them to actively engage in discussions about the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM GBF), ultimately building their capacity to be strong partners in the implementation of the new global biodiversity plan.

COP16 - Round 2, Rome

The Rome meeting will focus on finalizing unresolved topics from the first part of COP16 held in Cali. Negotiations will primarily address:

• Item 10: "Monitoring framework for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework" and "Mechanisms for planning, monitoring, reporting, and review."
• Item 11: "Resource mobilization" and "Financial mechanism."

These negotiations are already well-advanced, and significant changes are unlikely at this stage. There will be no additional activities, such as side events or pavilions, planned for this session.

GYBN Accreditation Process

Candidates seeking GYBN accreditation must demonstrate a strong commitment to biodiversity issues and possess at least a basic understanding of international negotiations. Prior to COP16-R2, all selected participants will engage in a brief preparatory process, offering networking opportunities with other youth delegates and providing a platform to share knowledge and experiences. Those selected will receive a 'Youth' badge, which will allow them to be part of the Youth Delegation coordinated by GYBN.

Funding Opportunities

Unfortunately, there is no funding available for COP16-R2. Participants must secure their own funding to attend the event. GYBN appreciates applicants' understanding and their continued dedication to biodiversity action, despite the financial constraints.

Visa Application

Due to the tight timeline, GYBN will not be able to assist with the visa application process. Applicants are responsible for arranging their own visas. The CBD Secretariat will provide accreditation letters to selected participants, which can help with the visa application process.

Important Dates:

• COP16-R2: February 25-27, 2025, Rome, Italy
• Deadline for Accreditation: January 21, 2024, 11:59 PM UTC (Accreditation processing may take 1-3 weeks)
• Documents Required: Application form

Note: Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All applications must be submitted in English. Incomplete applications or those submitted in other languages will not be reviewed. GYBN will not cover any visa or travel costs related to this event.

Only selected candidates will be notified.

January 21, 2025

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 3 December 2024