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Imagine being selected to report from a major United Nations summit, travel to Mongolia, and tell stories that shape how the world understands climate change and land crisis.
That’s exactly what the UNCCD COP17 media reporting fellowship offers in 2026.
This fully funded opportunity is designed for journalists who want to go beyond headlines and cover one of the most overlooked global challenges: land degradation and drought.
WhatsApp ChannelOverview of UNCCD COP17 Media Reporting Fellowship
- Location: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
- Dates: 17–28 August 2026
- Funding: Fully funded
- Deadline: 15 April 2026
- Focus: Climate, land, drought, global impact
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What is the UNCCD COP17 Media Reporting Fellowship?
The UNCCD COP17 media reporting fellowship is an international journalism program launched by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in collaboration with the International Drought Resilience Alliance.
It will support selected journalists to report directly from UNCCD COP17.
This global conference will take place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from 17 to 28 August 2026, bringing together leaders, scientists, policymakers, and communities to tackle land degradation and drought.
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Why This Fellowship Matters
Every second, the world loses fertile land at an alarming rate. This silent crisis affects:
- Food security
- Water availability
- Economic stability
- Migration patterns
Yet, it rarely makes headlines.
The UNCCD COP17 media reporting fellowship exists to change that by empowering journalists to tell stories that connect environmental issues with real human impact.
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What Does the Fellowship Cover?
Selected fellows will receive a fully funded package, including:
- Return economy-class airfare to Mongolia
- Accommodation during the conference (21–28 August 2026)
- Official media accreditation for COP17
- Field visit opportunities with local communities
- Access to global experts and pre-COP briefings
This makes it one of the most valuable fully funded journalism fellowships in 2026.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to:
- Professional journalists (staff or freelance)
- Individuals working with recognized media outlets
- Applicants from regions affected by drought, desertification, or land degradation
- Journalists covering environment, climate, agriculture, or development
You should also:
- Have a strong portfolio of published work
- Be comfortable working in English
- Show interest in connecting environmental issues with social and economic realities
What Will Selected Fellows Do?
If selected, you will:
- Attend expert briefings before the event
- Travel to Mongolia and report from COP17
- Produce at least three original stories:
- One before the conference
- One during the event
- One after, linking global issues to your local context
At least one story must highlight solutions, such as land restoration or drought resilience.
Required Documents
To apply for the UNCCD COP17 media reporting fellowship, you’ll need:
- Three published work samples
- A letter from an editor confirming publication intent
- A short proposal with three story ideas
- Information about your media outlet’s reach
- Updated CV or resume
Application Deadline
- Applications Open: 16 March 2026
- Deadline: 15 April 2026 (23:59 GMT)
- Results: End of April 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IELTS required?
No, there is no IELTS requirement. However, you must understand and work in English.
Can freelancers apply?
Yes, freelance journalists can apply if they have a strong portfolio and an editor’s support letter.
Is this fellowship fully funded?
Yes, it covers travel, accommodation, and participation costs.
Why This Fellowship Can Change Your Career
This is not just a trip or a conference.
It’s a chance to:
- Report from a major UN event
- Build global connections
- Publish impactful international stories
- Strengthen your credibility as a journalist
Very few opportunities offer this level of access, exposure, and funding at the same time.
Conclusion
The UNCCD COP17 media reporting fellowship is more than a fully funded opportunity. It’s a platform to bring attention to one of the most critical issues of our time.
If you’re a journalist looking to tell meaningful stories that matter globally and locally, this is your chance.
How to Apply
Send your application to: press@unccd.int
Subject line: COP17 Media Fellowship Application
