UNESCO 3rd Global MAB Youth Forum 2026 in Italy (Fully Funded)

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The 3rd Global MAB Youth Forum 2026, themed “Committed to the Future We Want,” is set to bring together young environmental leaders from around the world in Rosolina Mare, Italy, from 18 to 22 May 2026. Hosted under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, this in-person event highlights the growing role of youth in shaping sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and climate action.

Deadline: 23 March 2026

Why the MAB Youth Forum Matters

UNESCO’s MAB Programme is a global initiative that promotes harmony between people and nature. The Youth Forum strengthens youth engagement in biosphere reserves, offering participants a platform to contribute ideas, exchange knowledge, and influence environmental policies at local, national, and global levels. The 2026 edition aligns with the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035), focusing on biodiversity preservation, climate resilience, and sustainable development strategies.

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Key Objectives of the Forum

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Engage directly with the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan and support Action Target 20, which focuses on expanding the MAB Youth Network.
• Translate insights from the World MAB Youth Mapping Survey into actionable priorities and innovative solutions.
• Exchange youth-led projects and initiatives within biosphere reserves, advancing sustainable community development.
• Build leadership and coordination skills among young environmental advocates worldwide.
• Contribute recommendations to inform MAB governance and influence policy-making in environmental management.

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Who Can Participate

The forum is open to youth aged 18–35 who are actively engaged with UNESCO biosphere reserves through work, study, volunteering, research, or related activities. The program accommodates a maximum of 200 participants.

There are two application pathways:

1. National MAB Youth Focal Points: Official representatives eligible without competitive selection.
2. Open Call for MAB Youth Participants: Competitive selection emphasizing merit, geographic balance, gender parity, and alignment with the forum’s objectives.

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Application Requirements

National MAB Youth Focal Points need to submit:

• A confirmation letter of designation.
• A description of relevant experience (≤250 words).
• A statement of contribution to the forum (≤250 words).
• Follow-up plans after the forum (≤250 words).
• Financial support confirmation if available.

Open Call applicants must submit:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Description of experience or initiatives (≤250 words).
• Statement of intended contributions and outcomes (≤250 words).
• Plans to apply forum outcomes locally (≤250 words).
• Endorsement from a biosphere reserve or national MAB committee.
• Financial support confirmation if available.

Application Deadline: 23 March 2026, 23:59 CET.

Travel and Financial Support

Selected participants will have meals and accommodation covered. Limited funding may be available to support travel costs, depending on eligibility and funding availability.

How to Apply for 3rd Global MAB Youth Forum

Applications must be submitted online via UNESCO’s official MAB Youth Forum application portal. Early preparation is recommended to ensure all supporting documents and endorsements are ready.

Why Youth Should Attend

The forum is more than an event—it’s a global networking opportunity for young leaders to collaborate, share experiences, and influence environmental policy. Participants will leave equipped with actionable strategies to enhance sustainability in their local communities while shaping the future of UNESCO’s MAB Programme.