Applications are officially open for the 2026 UNFCCC CAPACITY Fellowship Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen climate leadership and negotiation capacity in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Supported by the Government of Portugal, the programme offers professionals the opportunity to deepen their expertise while contributing to the global implementation of the Paris Agreement.

The fellowship focuses on empowering talented mid-career professionals through advanced training, research, and hands-on experience in climate policy and adaptation. It seeks to nurture a new generation of experts capable of developing innovative approaches to climate challenges, advancing sustainable development priorities, and supporting stronger national climate action in vulnerable countries.

Selected fellows will join the UNFCCC secretariat in Bonn, Germany, where they will work within the Adaptation Division, specifically supporting adaptation planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting processes for developing countries, particularly LDCs and SIDS.

The programme is open to applicants who are currently employed within government institutions, ministries, educational institutions, or research organisations. Candidates must be nationals of and actively working in one of the eligible Lusophone countries: Angola, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, or Timor-Leste. Applicants should be no older than 40 years at the time the application period closes.

Interested candidates should hold a Master’s degree in environmental sciences, economics, engineering, development studies, or another relevant field. Applicants with a first university degree combined with additional professional experience may also be considered. A minimum of three years of professional experience in climate change-related work is required, particularly in adaptation planning and the implementation of adaptation measures. Strong written and spoken English skills are essential, while knowledge of another official UN language is considered an advantage.

The fellowship offers a monthly stipend of EUR 4,500, including allowances, and the UNFCCC secretariat will fully cover travel expenses to and from Bonn for the duration of the programme.

This is an excellent opportunity for climate professionals committed to advancing adaptation and resilience efforts within their countries while gaining international experience at the heart of global climate governance.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity