Applications Open for the UNFCCC CAPACITY Fellowship Programme 2026

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is inviting applications for the 2026 CAPACITY Fellowship Programme. This prestigious fellowship is designed to strengthen the capacity of climate change professionals from Lusophone Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) by providing hands-on experience within the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn, Germany.

Funded by the Government of Portugal, the Capacity Award Programme to Advance Capabilities and Institutional Training in One Year (CAPACITY) Fellowship aims to support the implementation of the Paris Agreement through capacity building, knowledge sharing, and leadership development.

The selected fellow will work within the Adaptation Division of the UNFCCC Secretariat for a one-year fellowship beginning as soon as possible after selection.

Fellowship Overview

• Host Organization: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)

• Programme: CAPACITY Fellowship Programme 2026

• Division: Adaptation Division – Response Subdivision (LEG/NAP Unit)

• Location: Bonn, Germany

• Duration: One year

• Monthly Stipend: EUR 4,500

• Travel Support: Round-trip travel between home country and Bonn provided by UNFCCC

• Application Deadline: 8 June 2026

• Expected Start Date: As soon as possible after selection

About the Fellowship

The fellowship is hosted by the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG) and National Adaptation Plans (NAP) Unit within the Adaptation Division of the UNFCCC Secretariat.

The selected fellow will contribute to climate adaptation initiatives, support intergovernmental negotiations, assist in the implementation of national adaptation plans, and help strengthen adaptation planning efforts in developing countries.

The programme seeks to develop a network of climate professionals capable of advancing innovative solutions to climate change challenges while strengthening institutional capacity in their home countries.

Key Responsibilities

The fellow will support activities in three major areas:

1. Intergovernmental Climate Processes

• Prepare technical analyses and policy documentation.

• Support climate negotiations related to adaptation and Least Developed Countries.

• Conduct research and draft technical studies on climate adaptation issues.

2. National Adaptation Plans (NAPs)

• Support the work of the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG).

• Assist in providing guidance to countries on developing and implementing National Adaptation Plans.

• Prepare outreach, communication, and training materials.

• Support workshops, training programmes, and stakeholder engagement activities.

3. Monitoring and Knowledge Management

• Maintain and support the NAP Central database and web systems.

• Facilitate communication with national focal points.

• Conduct data analysis on adaptation planning and implementation.

• Compile information related to adaptation progress, support needs, and implementation challenges.

Benefits

Successful fellows will receive:

• Monthly stipend of EUR 4,500

• International exposure within the UN climate change process

• Practical experience in multilateral climate negotiations

• Professional networking opportunities with international climate experts

• Capacity-building experience in adaptation planning and implementation

• Round-trip travel costs to and from Germany covered by UNFCCC

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be nationals of one of the following countries:

  • Angola

  • Cabo Verde

  • Guinea-Bissau

  • Mozambique

  • São Tomé and Príncipe

  • Timor-Leste

• Currently work in:

  • Government institutions

  • Public educational institutions

  • Research institutes

  • Ministries or related governmental organizations

• Be no older than 40 years at the application deadline.

Educational Requirements

Applicants should possess:

• A Master's degree in:

  • Environmental Science

  • Economics

  • Engineering

  • Development Studies

  • Or a related field

Alternatively, candidates with a first university degree and at least two additional years of relevant experience may also be considered.

Professional Experience

Applicants must have:

• At least three years of progressively responsible professional experience in climate change-related work.

• Experience related to climate adaptation planning and implementation.

Language Requirements

Required:

• Excellent written and spoken English.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of another official United Nations language.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to:

1. A technical assessment.

2. A competency-based interview.

Selected candidates will later be required to obtain employer endorsements confirming:

• Approval for leave during the fellowship period.

• Commitment to return to their institution after the fellowship.

• Relevance of the fellowship to institutional climate-related priorities.

• Intent to integrate acquired knowledge into government climate change activities.

Why You Should Apply

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to work directly within the UN climate change system while gaining practical experience in adaptation planning, international negotiations, and policy development.

Professionals working in climate change, environmental policy, adaptation planning, and sustainable development will benefit from exposure to global best practices and international networks that can strengthen climate action efforts in their home countries.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible candidates should submit their applications through the UNFCCC online recruitment portal before the deadline.

Application Deadline: 8 June 2026

Apply through the official UNFCCC recruitment system.

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