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The UN Climate Change Fellowship Programme continues to empower mid-career professionals from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) by providing specialized training and hands-on experience in global climate action. With new funding from Portugal and Italy, more professionals can now participate in this transformative opportunity.

Portugal’s contribution is dedicated to supporting professionals from Portuguese-speaking SIDS and LDCs within the secretariat’s Transparency Division. Meanwhile, Italy’s funding enables fellowship opportunities in the Means of Implementation and Adaptation divisions.

About the CAPACITY Fellowship Programme

Officially known as the Capacity Award Programme to Advance Capabilities and Institutional Training in One Year (CAPACITY), the fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals already working in government roles within SIDS or LDCs. Participants gain first-hand experience at UN Climate Change in Bonn, Germany, for up to two years.

Candidates are selected with the understanding that their training and development will strengthen their home organizations’ ability to address climate challenges.

“The CAPACITY Fellowship Programme bridges the gap between global policy and local realities. It empowers mid-career professionals to navigate complex political landscapes and bring their unique voices to global climate action,” said Alejandro Kilpatrick, Means of Implementation Manager at UN Climate Change. “The programme not only enhances the expertise of professionals from LDCs and SIDS, but their perspectives also contribute meaningfully to our work.”

Core Objectives of the Fellowship

The CAPACITY Fellowship Programme is built on three key objectives:

  1. Support innovative climate change work within the framework of sustainable development.
  2. Foster a global network of creative experts tackling climate challenges.
  3. Develop leadership potential of promising professionals in their respective fields.

Transformative Experiences from Former Fellows

Past fellows highlight the significant impact of the programme on their careers.

Marie Stephania Perrine, who worked in the Means of Implementation Division from 2023 to 2025, described the fellowship as “a significant milestone in my career, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to global climate action while honing my skills.”

Milan Dhungana, a fellow in the Transparency Division from 2023 to 2025, noted: “The fellowship was an enriching experience that provided invaluable learning opportunities. The skills and insights gained will be instrumental in advancing climate transparency actions in my home country.”

Yiaser Arafat Rubel, who served in the Means of Implementation Division, advised future fellows: “Share your knowledge and experience with your cohort. This enhances collective knowledge, offers diverse perspectives, and fosters a deeper understanding of the work being undertaken.”

Opportunities for CAPACITY Fellows

Fellows gain practical experience, including:

  • Supporting the work of UN Climate Change’s constituted bodies.
  • Engaging in intergovernmental processes.
  • Drafting reports and policy briefs.
  • Organizing meetings and high-level events.
  • Representing UN Climate Change in international engagements.

The programme provides exposure to a diverse, multicultural, and interdisciplinary environment, deepens understanding of the UN climate governance process, and equips professionals with practical skills, impactful training, and high-quality mentorship to drive change in their home countries.

Apply Now – New Fellowship Vacancies

Thanks to the support from Italy and Portugal, three new CAPACITY Fellowship vacancies are now open:

Interested candidates can find more details and submit their applications through the UNFCCC vacancies portal.

Application deadline: 23 March 2025.

For more insights, hear from past fellows about their experiences and explore how this programme is shaping the future of climate leadership in SIDS and LDCs.