The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has opened applications for the 2026 CAPACITY Fellowship Program, offering climate professionals from developing countries an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international climate policy and governance. The program, which is fully funded and based at the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn, Germany, seeks to strengthen climate expertise and support the implementation of global climate agreements.
The CAPACITY Fellowship Program, formally known as the Capacity Award Program to Advance Capabilities and Institutional Training in One Year, is designed to develop local expertise in climate change adaptation, sustainable development, and environmental policy. The initiative supports professionals already working in government institutions and aims to enhance institutional capacity in vulnerable countries.
Applications for the 2026 cohort opened in early May, with the deadline set for 8 June 2026. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of approximately €4,500, along with travel support to and from Germany. The fellowship lasts for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and program requirements.
According to the UNFCCC, the program aims to build a network of climate professionals capable of developing innovative solutions to climate challenges while strengthening climate action within their home institutions. Fellows are expected to return to their countries after the programme and apply the knowledge and experience gained during their placement.
Speaking at an information session on May 20, climate policy specialist Dr. Maria Fernandes highlighted the importance of investing in climate leadership.
"Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our generation. Building expertise in developing countries is essential for creating effective and sustainable solutions,"
she said.
The 2026 fellowship will place participants within the Adaptation Division of the UNFCCC Secretariat, where they will contribute to climate adaptation initiatives, policy analysis, research activities, and technical support for developing countries. Fellows will work closely with experts involved in National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and other climate resilience programs.
Program organizers noted that participants will gain valuable exposure to international climate negotiations and policy-making processes under frameworks such as the Paris Agreement. The experience is expected to strengthen both technical and leadership skills among emerging climate professionals.
Environmental consultant Paulo Gomes from Mozambique described the fellowship as a significant opportunity for professionals working in climate adaptation.
"Programs like CAPACITY allow professionals from developing countries to engage directly with global climate processes and bring that knowledge back home,"
Gomes said on May 25.
Eligibility requirements include a master's degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, economics, engineering, or development studies, as well as at least three years of professional experience in climate-related work. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in English and be employed within government institutions or national educational organizations.
This year's fellowship specifically targets professionals from Lusophone Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), including Angola, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste. Organizers have emphasized the importance of gender balance and inclusive participation throughout the selection process.
Climate governance expert James Okello believes initiatives such as the CAPACITY Fellowship are increasingly important as countries work to meet international climate commitments.
"The transition to a climate resilient future requires skilled professionals who understand both local realities and global policy frameworks,"
he said.
As climate challenges continue to intensify worldwide, the UNFCCC CAPACITY Fellowship Program remains one of the leading opportunities for professionals seeking to contribute to climate action while advancing their careers in international environmental policy. By combining practical experience, technical training, and global networking opportunities, the program aims to equip participants with the tools necessary to drive meaningful climate solutions in their home countries and beyond.