Are you a passionate journalist or content creator dedicated to covering environmental issues? Do you want to report on global climate negotiations directly from the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31)? The Climate Change Media Partnership (CCMP), led by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) and the Stanley Center for Peace and Security, is offering a fully funded fellowship for journalists from low- and middle-income countries to attend and cover COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye.

Now in its 19th year, this prestigious program brings together dedicated reporters to work alongside knowledgeable media trainers, gaining unparalleled access to the UN climate talks. For the first time, independent creator journalists who utilize digital platforms and social media are also eligible to apply.

Important Details

• Host Country: Türkiye (City of Antalya)
• Organizers: Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) & the Stanley Center for Peace and Security
• Event Dates: November 9-20, 2026
• Eligible Countries: Low- and middle-income countries (as defined by the World Bank)
• Target Audience: Professional journalists and independent creator journalists
• Application Deadline: June 17, 2026, 11:59 PM (Pacific/Niue Time)

Financial Benefits

The CCMP Fellowship is a fully funded opportunity that provides comprehensive support for selected participants:

• Round-trip, non-refundable economy-class airfare to Antalya, Türkiye.
• Accommodation arranged by the organizers (single occupancy if possible, though shared housing may be required).
• A monetary stipend to offset the cost of meals and incidental expenses.
• Comprehensive travel medical insurance.
• Ground transportation costs related to fellowship participation.
• Reimbursement for any necessary visa application costs.
• Facilitation of the official UNFCCC press accreditation process.

Program Offerings and Editorial Support

In addition to financial coverage, fellows receive extensive professional development:

• Pre-COP virtual workshops and technical support.
• In-person orientation sessions in Antalya with seasoned climate experts.
• Daily briefings, one-on-one mentorship, and feedback on story drafts from senior EJN trainers.
• Arranged group interviews with high-level officials and climate subject matter experts.
• Networking mixers and cohort-building activities with international journalists.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the COP31 CCMP Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a national of and report from an eligible low- or middle-income country.
• Be a professional journalist representing an established media house OR an independent creator journalist using journalistic practices on digital platforms.
• Have never attended a UNFCCC climate COP in person previously (neither self-funded nor via a fellowship).
• Be fully available to travel to Antalya and participate for the entire two weeks of COP31 (November 9-20, 2026).
• Be highly proficient in the English language to participate in training sessions and communications.
• Have demonstrated previous experience reporting on climate change, climate policy, or environmental topics.
• Commit to participating in all scheduled CCMP Fellowship activities and adhere to editorial standards.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following materials in English:

• An up-to-date Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A short video pitch (maximum 2 minutes) explaining the specific topics and stories you plan to cover at COP31.
• A formal letter of support from an editor, producer, or supervisor confirming that your COP31 reports will be published or broadcast. (Freelancers must provide a signed letter of intent from a target media outlet).
• A minimum of three recent journalistic work samples related to climate change, published between May 15, 2025, and June 15, 2026. (Non-English samples must include a short English synopsis).

How to Apply

The application process is conducted entirely online. Interested and qualified journalists should follow these steps:

1. Ensure all your required documents, video pitch, and work samples are ready.
2. Visit the official Earth Journalism Network application portal using the link below.
3. Create a new account or log in to your existing EJN account.
4. Complete the online application form in English, clearly outlining your proposed coverage plan for COP31.
5. Disclose any use of generative AI tools in your application process, as required by EJN guidelines.
6. Submit your application before the deadline on June 17, 2026.

For more information, please visit the official Earth Journalism Network website.

• Official Announcement Link
• Online Application Portal

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I apply if my previous climate stories were published in a language other than English? Yes. You may submit work samples in any language, provided you include a short English synopsis for each piece during the application process.

Are freelance journalists eligible for this fellowship? Yes, freelance reporters are highly encouraged to apply. However, you must provide a signed letter of support from an established media outlet confirming their commitment to publishing or broadcasting the stories you produce during the fellowship.

What if I have attended a previous COP event virtually? You are eligible as long as you have never attended a UNFCCC climate COP in person. Past virtual attendance does not disqualify you.

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