Applications are now open for the EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026, a fully funded opportunity for journalists from low- and middle-income countries to report from the UN Biodiversity Conference (UNCBD COP17) in Yerevan, Armenia.
The fellowship enables journalists to provide in-depth coverage of one of the world’s most important biodiversity conferences. In addition, it helps media professionals report on critical negotiations, key decisions, and emerging environmental challenges that affect communities across the globe.
Furthermore, participants will receive financial support, technical guidance, and reporting resources before and during the conference. As a result, fellows can produce impactful stories that reach audiences far beyond the conference venue.
If you regularly apply for journalism fellowships, you may also find our guide on international fellowships for journalists useful on OpportunityLab.net
EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026 Overview
The EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026 seek to strengthen environmental journalism by supporting experienced reporters covering biodiversity conservation and environmental policy.
Moreover, the programme focuses on increasing accurate reporting about biodiversity loss, conservation efforts, and international environmental agreements. Consequently, journalists will help raise public awareness while contributing to informed discussions on global biodiversity issues.
The conference will take place in Yerevan, Armenia, from October 19 to October 30, 2026.
Application Deadline: June 29, 2026 (11:59 PM Pacific/Niue)
EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a professional journalist working with an established media organization or representing one.
- Report from a low- or middle-income country as classified by the World Bank.
- Demonstrate previous experience covering biodiversity or environmental issues.
- Explain the stories they intend to pursue during COP17.
- Be available to travel to Armenia from October 17 to October 31, 2026.
- Have a good command of English.
- Submit an updated CV or résumé.
- Provide a support letter from an editor, producer, or supervisor confirming publication or broadcast plans.
- Freelance journalists may also apply but must submit a commissioning letter from a media outlet.
- Provide recent biodiversity-related work samples published within the last 12 months.
- Include an English summary for any work samples published in another language.
Likewise, applicants should prepare all supporting documents before beginning the online application.
EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026 Benefits
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive support throughout the fellowship.
Benefits include:
- Fully funded economy-class airfare
- Hotel accommodation
- Daily meals
- Travel medical insurance
- Local transportation related to fellowship activities
- Press accreditation support
- Visa reimbursement where applicable
- Technical guidance before the conference
- Participation in a pre-COP virtual workshop
- Access to networking opportunities with journalists and biodiversity experts
Additionally, fellows will receive reporting resources that strengthen their coverage before arriving in Armenia.
Conference Experience Under the EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026
Selected fellows will participate throughout the entire conference.
The programme includes:
- Arrival in Armenia on October 17, 2026
- Attendance at the UNCBD COP17 conference from October 19–30, 2026
- Departure on October 31, 2026
- Daily reporting opportunities
- Networking with international journalists
- Expert briefings before major negotiations
- Editorial support throughout the conference
Furthermore, fellows can explore story ideas related to biodiversity conservation, climate action, environmental governance, indigenous communities, and sustainable development.
Why You Should Apply for the EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026
Environmental reporting continues to shape public understanding of biodiversity challenges. Therefore, journalists need opportunities that provide direct access to global environmental discussions.
This fellowship offers much more than travel support. Instead, it equips participants with professional resources, international exposure, and valuable reporting experience that can strengthen their journalism careers.
In addition, fellows become part of a growing network of environmental reporters committed to accurate and impactful storytelling.
If you also apply for environmental grants, visit OpportunityLab.net for more fully funded environmental fellowships, journalism grants, and international reporting opportunities.
How to Apply for the EJN Biodiversity Fellowships 2026
Interested journalists should prepare all required documents before completing the online application.
Applicants must submit:
- Updated CV or résumé
- Letter of support from an editor or commissioning media outlet
- Recent biodiversity reporting samples
- English summaries for non-English publications
Afterward, complete the official online application before the deadline.
