Applications are open for professionals seeking to advance their careers in climate policy and global environmental governance. The CAPACITY Fellowship Programme 2026, offered by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, is designed to strengthen climate expertise and institutional capacity in developing countries.

Hosted at the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn, Germany, this fellowship provides hands-on experience within one of the world’s leading climate bodies, alongside strong financial support.

Programme Duration

• Standard: 1 year

• Possible extension: up to 2 years

Programme Focus

The fellowship is structured to build practical and technical expertise in climate-related fields. Participants contribute directly to global climate frameworks, including:

• The Paris Agreement

• The Kyoto Protocol

• International climate policy and implementation strategies

Fellows engage in real-world tasks such as research, policy development, stakeholder coordination, and climate action planning.

What Fellows Will Do

During the programme, participants typically:

• Support climate policy research and analysis

• Contribute to mitigation and adaptation strategies

• Engage in global climate negotiations and discussions

• Assist in stakeholder coordination and reporting

• Strengthen institutional knowledge and capacity

Career Impact

The CAPACITY Fellowship is widely regarded as a career-defining opportunity. Participants gain:

• International work experience within the UN system

• Deep understanding of global climate governance

• Strong professional networks and mentorship

• Enhanced leadership and policy expertise

Graduates often move into senior roles in government, international organizations, NGOs, and research institutions.

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the official UNFCCC recruitment system when positions open. Interested candidates are encouraged to:

• Regularly monitor UNFCCC career announcements

• Prepare required documents in advance (CV, motivation letter, etc.)

• Apply promptly when vacancies are published

Note: Open calls may be released periodically, so early preparation is recommended.