Applications are now open for the Pre-COP31 Australia & Pacific Youth Climate Dialogue (APYCD) 2026, a fully funded opportunity for young climate leaders from Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations to participate in a regional dialogue ahead of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).

Scheduled to take place in Nadi, Fiji, from 1–3 October 2026, the dialogue will convene more than 60 young people aged 14–29 to discuss climate challenges, exchange innovative solutions, strengthen leadership skills, and develop recommendations that will directly inform discussions at the Pacific Pre-COP31 meeting and COP31.

The initiative is organized by UNICEF, in partnership with the Governments of Fiji and Australia, the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC), the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network (PICAN), the Pacific Youth Council (PYC), and other regional organizations working to advance youth participation in climate governance.

Programme Details

• Host Country: Fiji
• Venue: Nadi, Fiji
• Programme Dates: 1–3 October 2026
• Programme Type: Regional Youth Climate Dialogue
• Funding: Fully Funded
• Organizer: UNICEF and regional partners

Selection Criteria

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A strong commitment to climate and environmental action.
• Active involvement in climate-related initiatives at school, community, national, regional, or international levels.
• Participation in youth organizations, networks, or community groups.
• Leadership potential and the ability to take initiative.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

What Participants Will Do

During the three-day dialogue, participants will:

• Share experiences and climate solutions from their communities.
• Develop youth recommendations that will contribute to Pre-COP31 and COP31 discussions.
• Build skills in climate advocacy, policy, leadership, and negotiations.
• Collaborate with young climate leaders from across the region.
• Engage directly with government representatives, development partners, and climate stakeholders.
• Expand professional networks and strengthen long-term collaboration on climate action.

Commitment to Inclusion

The organizers are committed to ensuring diverse representation and encourage applications from young women, Indigenous and First Nations youth, persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ youth, and young people from remote and underserved communities across the Pacific region.

Application Deadlines

• 26 July 2026 – Applicants from Pacific Island nations.
• 30 July 2026 – Applicants from Australia and New Zealand.

Interested young climate leaders are encouraged to apply before the relevant deadline to take part in this unique opportunity to influence regional and global climate discussions ahead of COP31.