The Division of Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea of the United Nations (“OLA/DOALOS”) is pleased to announce the call for applications for its flagship UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2027 on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (UNNF OALOS). It’s a 9-month, fully funded fellowship program aimed at mid-level government officials and professionals from developing countries who work directly in ocean affairs or the law of the sea. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to receive advanced training at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and to conduct research at a leading international host institution. No application fee is required; the application window is open, and the last date for submission is September 13th, 2026.
About UN Nippon Foundation Fellowship
UNNF OALOS is a prestigious fellowship program designed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of government officials and professionals working on ocean affairs and the law of the sea. Selected fellows will receive advanced training at the United Nations before completing their research projects under the guidance of an academic institution. After completing the fellowship, fellows are expected to return to their home countries and improve their maritime policies on ocean affairs.
Fellowship Overview
- Hosted by: UN (DOALOS) & Nippon Foundation
- Location: New York + International Host Institute
- Duration: 9 Months
- Fellowship Period: March 24th – December 17th, 2027
- Coverage: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: September 13th, 2026
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship consists of two phases, which are:
Phase 1 – Training at UN HQ, New York (24 March – 30 June 2027)
- 3 months of research and professional training at the UN HQ in New York.
Phase 2 – Advanced Research at Host Institute (1 July – 17 December 2027)
- 6 months of advanced research at a participating international host institute.
Fellowship benefits
The fellows will receive a wide range of perks and benefits such as:
- International airfare support.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Accommodation support.
- Comprehensive medical insurance.
- 3 months of professional training at UN HQ, New York.
- Opportunity to expand your professional network in ocean governance.
Who can Apply?
- Be 25 to 45 years old.
- Hold at least a first university degree or equivalent qualification.
- Be a national of a developing country.
- Be a mid-level government official or professional working directly on ocean affairs, maritime law, marine science, coastal management, maritime security, environmental protection, or related areas.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct advanced academic research.
- Have strong written and spoken English skills.
- Be available to participate in the full in-person programme.
Required Documents
- Completed Fellowship Application Form
- Signed Nomination Form from the nominating authority
- Valid passport copy
How to Apply?
The application process for the UN Nippon Foundation fellowship is online; applicants meeting the required criteria need to submit their applications via the United Nations Indico platform. Incomplete or late submission of applications will not be entertained.
Application Deadline: September 13th, 2026
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To apply, visit the offical link below:
APPLY FOR UN NIPPON FOUNDATION FELLOWSHIP 2027
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