The UNESCO 3rd Global MAB Youth Forum 2026, a significant worldwide youth event that will take place in Rosolina Mare, Italy, from May 18–22, 2026, is currently accepting applications. About 200 young people from around the globe will attend the forum, which will provide a special opportunity to interact with the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme.
Food, lodging, and a small amount of travel expenses will all be provided for the chosen participants, and there is no application fee.
In line with the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035), the Forum’s theme, “Committed to the Future We Want,” highlights the importance of young people in addressing global issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.
In order to promote information sharing, leadership development, and workable solutions for environmental and sustainability issues, participants will take part in a range of activities, such as interactive workshops, conversations, field trips, and cooperative projects. Young people throughout the world have a rare chance to share their thoughts, gain knowledge from experts and peers, and take an active role in bringing about change for a more sustainable future.
Host Country: Rosolina Mare, Italy
Opportunity Type: Youth Forum, Conference
Date: 18 May to 22 May 2026
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Objectives
- Implement the Hangzhou Action Plan: Promote and advance the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035), with a particular focus on expanding and strengthening the MAB Youth Network globally.
- Transform Survey Findings into Action: Convert insights from the Youth Mapping Survey into practical local and global action plans for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
- Share Youth-Led Innovations: Facilitate the exchange of success stories, innovative projects, and best practices led by youth across various biosphere reserves.
- Build Leadership Capacity: Enhance the skills, knowledge, and coordination abilities of young leaders worldwide, empowering them to drive impactful environmental initiatives.
- Influence Governance: Develop formal recommendations and strategies to ensure that youth have a permanent and recognized role in MAB decision-making processes.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age Requirement: Candidates must be in the 18–35 age range.
- UNESCO Biosphere Reserves (BRs): Applicants must have an active relationship with a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
- Types of Involvement: Those that qualify may show how they are connected by:
- Living or working in a biosphere reserve is referred to as residence or employment, respectively.
- Research & Education: Researching or studying a biosphere reserve from a scientific standpoint.
- Volunteering and Support: Taking part in volunteer work or lending a hand with initiatives related to a biosphere reserve’s administration, preservation, or promotion.
Benefits:
- Travel Expenses: Participants’ minimal travel expenses, such as transportation to and from the venue, will be covered by the Forum. This guarantees that young leaders from various nations can attend without facing financial obstacles.
- Accommodations: Throughout the Forum, attendees will be given cozy accommodations so they can concentrate on the program’s activities and networking opportunities.
- Food: During the Forum, all meals and refreshments will be provided, guaranteeing that attendees will always have access to wholesome food.
- Because of these features, the Forum is completely accessible, enabling participants to actively participate in seminars, field trips, and cooperative projects without having to worry about fundamental financial or logistical requirements.
Deadline: 23rd March 2026
