YBB – Journalists passionate about environmental reporting now have an exciting opportunity to cover one of the world’s most important biodiversity events. The Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalists 2026 in Armenia are currently open for applications. Organized by the Earth Journalism Network (EJN), this fully funded fellowship will support journalists from low- and middle-income countries in reporting on the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (UNCBD COP17).
The conference will take place in Yerevan, Armenia, from 19 to 30 October 2026. Through this fellowship, selected journalists will gain direct access to global biodiversity discussions while receiving financial and professional support throughout the event.
About the Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalists 2026
The Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalists aim to strengthen global environmental reporting by supporting journalists who cover biodiversity and conservation issues. As part of the program, fellows will attend the UN Convention on Biological Diversity COP17 and report on key developments from the conference.
Moreover, participants will join a pre-COP online workshop before traveling to Armenia. This session will help fellows understand the conference agenda, discuss reporting strategies, and clarify any questions regarding coverage.
During the conference, journalists will receive mentorship, technical assistance, and networking opportunities that can enhance the quality and impact of their reporting.
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Program Details
Program Location
Yerevan, Armenia
Organizing Institution
Earth Journalism Network (EJN)
Conference Dates
19–30 October 2026
Fellowship Duration
17–31 October 2026 (including travel period)
What You Will Experience
The fellowship offers much more than financial support. Participants will gain valuable exposure to international environmental policymaking and journalism practices.
Throughout COP17, fellows will:
- Attend orientation sessions led by biodiversity experts.
- Participate in interviews with high-level officials and policymakers.
- Receive mentorship from experienced journalists who have covered major UN conferences.
- Access technical guidance and story development support from EJN trainers.
- Collaborate and exchange reporting ideas with journalists from around the world.
- Build professional networks within the environmental journalism community.
As a result, participants will strengthen their reporting skills while contributing meaningful stories about biodiversity and conservation.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive financial support, including:
1. International Airfare
The fellowship will cover round-trip travel expenses to Armenia.
2. Accommodation and Meals
Participants will receive accommodation and meals throughout the conference period.
3. Visa Cost Reimbursement
The program will reimburse eligible visa expenses.
4. Travel Medical Insurance
Health and travel insurance coverage will be provided during the fellowship.
5. Local Transportation
Transportation costs within Armenia will be covered.
6. Logistical Support
EJN will assist fellows with conference-related logistics and coordination.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalists 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a professional journalist from a low- or middle-income country.
- Have previous experience reporting on biodiversity-related topics.
- Clearly explain the stories they intend to cover during COP17.
- Be available to attend the conference in person from 17 to 31 October 2026.
- Demonstrate strong English-language proficiency.
- Work in any media format, including online, print, television, or radio.
- Be affiliated with international, national, local, or community-based media organizations.
- Submit all required application materials.
- Freelance journalists are also eligible to apply.
However, journalists who have previously attended biodiversity COP conferences through this fellowship program are not eligible to apply again.
In addition, applicants must disclose any AI-assisted content used in their application. Undisclosed AI-generated submissions will be disqualified.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Updated Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Letter of support from an editor, producer, supervisor, or media outlet representative.
- Recent journalism samples related to biodiversity issues published within the last 12 months.
How to Apply Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalist
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
- Visit the official application portal.
- Click the “Apply Now” button.
- Create a new account.
- Log in using your account credentials.
- Complete the online application form.
- Provide all required personal and professional information.
- Upload the requested documents.
- Answer all conference-related questions carefully.
- Review your application thoroughly.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Application Deadline
The final deadline to apply for the Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalists 2026 is:
29 June 2026
Since the application window is limited, interested journalists should prepare their documents and submit their applications as early as possible.
Why You Should Apply
Environmental journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public understanding of biodiversity challenges. Therefore, this fellowship provides a rare opportunity to report directly from one of the most significant international biodiversity conferences.
Beyond financial support, participants will gain access to experts, policymakers, and experienced journalists. Furthermore, they will develop stronger reporting skills, expand their professional networks, and produce impactful stories that contribute to global biodiversity awareness.
Conclusion
The Biodiversity Fellowships for Journalists 2026 in Armenia offer a remarkable opportunity for journalists who are committed to environmental reporting. With full financial support, mentorship from experienced professionals, and direct access to the UN Biodiversity Conference COP17, participants will gain valuable experience while covering critical global biodiversity discussions. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have a passion for biodiversity journalism, this fellowship is an excellent opportunity to advance your career and amplify important environmental stories on a global stage.
