To all the young changemakers, do you want to participate in one of the leading international youth forums while making an impact? If so, here is an exciting opportunity the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, through its official portal has announced the call for applications for the 3rd edition of UNESCO Global MAB Youth Forum 2026 under the theme of “Committed to the Future we want,” aligned with the Hangzhou Strategic Action plan (2026-2036) focused on climate action, sustainable development and biodiversity.
It’s a prestigious, international forum organized by UNESCO under the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme scheduled to take place in Rosolina Mare, Italy, from May 18th – 22nd, 2026. The forum is inviting applications from young intellectuals aged 18-35, actively engaged with UNESCO Biosphere reserves, e.g., through work, research, or volunteering. The forum will invite a total of 200 paricipants from across the world. The forum offers participants a hands-on learning experience through interactive workshops, group discussions, networking sessions, and more.
The program offers comprehensive support to participants, which includes accommodation, meals, and limited travel support. No Application fee is required. The last date for application submission is March 23rd, 2026.
Here is the official call of UNESCO for the MAB Youth Forum 2026
Details About the 3rd UNESCO Global MAB Youth Forum 2026 in Italy
- Location: Rosolina Mare, Italy
- Program Mode: In-person
- Coverage: Funded
- Organized by: UNESCO
- Dates: May 18 – 22, 2026
- Total Participants: 200
- Application Deadline: 23rd March 2026
Also, Check: Japan International Awards 2026 for Young Researchers
About the UNESCO MAB Programme
For those who are not aware of the UNESCO MAB Programme, let us give you a brief intro: it’s a scientific initiative of UNESCO that combines natural and social sciences to improve the relationship between people and their environment.
Program coverage
The participants will receive the following support:
- Accommodation in Rosoline Mere, Italy, for the forum duration
- Meals during the program
- Local transportation costs
- Exlusive access to all forum workshops, forum resources, and seminars
The program does not cover
- International airfare coverage
- Visa costs
- Travel insurance
Eligiblity Criteria
Applicants fulfilling the following criteria are invited to submit their applications:
- Applicants must be 18-35 years of age at the time of application
- Actively engaged or connected with UNESCO Biosphere reserves, e.g., conducting research, volunteering, studying, or working on BR-related activities
- Excellent command of the English language
- Commit to full-time participation during the forum dates
Forum Objective
- Enable youth to contribute to the implementation of Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026-2035)
- Translate the youth mapping survey results into global action plans
- Facilitate youth-led initiatives in biosphere reserves
- Foster leadership and capacity building
Required Documents
- An updated CV
- An endorsement letter from the BR Manager to prove you are an active member of the community
- Motivation essay
Also, Check:
- UNFPA Adolescents and Youth Fellow 2026 in Cairo, Egypt
- Özyeğin University Summer Internship 2026 in Turkey (Funded)
How to Apply?
Applicants meeting the required criteria need to submit an online expression of interest through the offical portal mentioned below. To apply and for more details regarding the program, visit the official link mentioned below.
APPLY FOR UNESCO GLOBAL MAB FORUM 2026
