Apply Now to become a UN Youth Champion for Environment and Peace [Deadline: September 20, 2026]

Sep 14, 2026 (Deadline: 2026-09-20) | UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus
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For the sixth year, UNFICYP and the British Council, through its regional Youth Connect programme, are pleased to offer the acclaimed UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace initiative. This year, the programme will focus on environmental peacebuilding and the implementation of joint actions to address shared environmental concerns. The programme will include immersive workshops on 3, 4, 10 and 11 October 2026, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to develop their own environmental peacebuilding actions in teams. With support from a mentor, each team will develop and implement environmental action plans. All the environmental actions must be implemented by February 2027.The programme comes at a time when the need to make our societies more sustainable, cohesive and resilient is more urgent than ever, as climate change increasingly exacerbates insecurity and inequality around the world. Acting together globally and locally is vital in the face of conflict.UNFICYP is looking for dynamic and passionate young people from all communities living on the island to embark on an exciting journey with us. Together with experts, trainers, environmental and peacebuilding practitioners, and youth activists, we will explore, learn and co-create initiatives that strengthen resilience, social cohesion, inclusive leadership, while fostering intercommunal trust, environmental cooperation and sustainable development. The programme is specifically designed to engage and empower young people in Cyprus to take an active role in peacebuilding by fostering dialogue, building trust and promoting joint actions on shared environmental concerns. It also strengthens skills such as confidence, adaptability and critical thinking. By the end of the programme, participants will have connected with environmental and peacebuilding organisations and joined the inspiring network of Youth Champions. The deadline for applications is 20 September. Participation is free.Eligibility criteria:

  • Aged 18-30, from any community living in Cyprus  
  • A strong desire to make a significant contribution towards a peaceful and sustainable future on the island   
  • An interest in the environment and peace and becoming active in these issues  
  • Commitment and motivation to actively participate in an experiential workshop (3, 4, 10 and 11 October 2026) and to implement an environmental action as part of a team by February 2027  
  • Very good knowledge of English  
  • A wish to develop interpersonal relations with participants from all communities living in Cyprus and to work together for a common cause 
The call is open only to people that did not benefit from previous UN Youth Champions programmes. No previous experience in environmental and peacebuilding issues is required. We strive for gender diversity and equal representation among youth from all communities living in Cyprus.Accommodation in Nicosia may be available during the weekend-long workshops of the programme, based on demand, for participants who are unable to commute. Please note that availability is limited and subject to confirmation. Participation is contingent on your ability to enter the UN buffer zone in Nicosia, as all activities will be held at Ledra Palace. Please note that authority over entry through the crossing points rests with the respective sides, not the UN. Please ensure that you have the required documentation to enter the buffer zone. What to expect: WorkshopThe in-person workshops will take place in the buffer zone in Nicosia and focus on collaborative learning. They will include interactive sessions and discussions with environmental and peacebuilding activists, as well as group work. During the group work sessions, you will get to know the other participants, form teams and work together to develop environmental actions with the support from our team and experts from across the island. Implementation of environmental actionsAfter the workshops, you will be expected to finalize your environmental action idea and submit a simple proposal. Each team will receive a small grant to implement its actions by February 2027, with support from a mentor and experts, as needed. Actions should reach people across the divide, and it is strongly encouraged that they take place throughout Cyprus. The closing event of the programme will take place at the end of March. All participants are expected to attend.Attendance is mandatory for all programme days (3, 4, 10, and 11 October), as is active participation in the environmental actions. Please note that full compliance with both requirements is necessary in order to receive the programme certificate.Please note that participation in the Youth Champions initiative does not imply a full-time role or any form of employment with the UN or British Council. Participation in the initiative is honorary, non remunerated (no UN emoluments nor entitlements) and does not entail speaking on behalf of the UN or UNFICYP, nor UN privileges and immunities for participants. How to apply:Fill in the application form by clicking here by Sunday 20 September 2026.Applicants may be contacted to provide further information. We aim to notify successful applicants by 23 September 2026. Selected participants will receive a detailed programme for the two-weekend workshop at a later stage. For any queries, please contact us at unficyp-youthchampions@un.org.