EJN COP31 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship for Journalists 2026
The EJN COP31 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for journalists and creator journalists from low- and middle-income countries to cover the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31). This fellowship, led by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) and the Stanley Center for Peace and Security, aims to bring over 550 journalists to Antalya, Türkiye, from November 9-20, 2026, to report on critical climate negotiations. This program has a long history, dating back to 2007, and has supported numerous journalists in bringing global climate discussions to their local audiences. For the first time, the fellowship is expanding its reach to include independent creator journalists who use digital platforms to deliver climate-related news.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support to attend the full two weeks of COP31. This includes operational and logistical assistance such as non-refundable economy-class airfare, accommodation, meals, travel medical insurance, and ground transportation. While fellows are responsible for obtaining necessary visas, the program will reimburse visa costs. Accommodation will be arranged in single occupancy rooms when possible, though applicants should be prepared for the possibility of shared housing.
In addition to travel and living expenses, fellows will receive a small stipend to cover incidental costs. A significant component of the fellowship is the reporting resources and editorial support provided by experienced EJN trainers. These senior journalists will offer guidance through pre-COP virtual workshops, informational resources, and on-site orientation sessions. Fellows will benefit from daily briefings, one-on-one discussions with mentors, and access to a dedicated Trello board for information sharing. A group chat on a messaging platform will also be available for real-time communication and support.
The fellowship also facilitates opportunities for interviews with high-level officials and subject matter experts. Networking is encouraged through mixers with other journalists and cohort-building activities, including group meals and local excursions. Selected fellows may even be invited to participate as speakers or moderators at official and unofficial side events during the summit.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the EJN COP31 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship, applicants must meet several criteria. They must be professional journalists from or representing an established media house in an eligible country. A key requirement is that applicants must not have attended a UNFCCC climate COP in person before, whether self-funded or through a fellowship. Applicants must be available and willing to travel to Antalya, TĂĽrkiye, for the entire duration of COP31.
A good command of the English language is necessary, as is previous experience reporting on climate change issues. Applicants should clearly articulate the types of stories they intend to pursue during the conference. Commitment to participating in all fellowship activities is mandatory. Applicants must submit an up-to-date resume or CV and a video, no longer than two minutes, explaining their COP31 reporting plans.
A crucial element is a letter of support from an editor, producer, or supervisor who can confirm that the journalist’s reports will be published or broadcast by an established media outlet. Freelancers need a signed letter from a media outlet that commits to publishing their fellowship-produced stories. The chosen outlet’s reach, format, audience, and publication schedule should align with the demands of reporting from COP31. Finally, applicants must provide at least three recent, relevant journalistic work samples on climate change topics published between May 15, 2025, and June 15, 2026. These samples can be uploaded as documents or web links. Stories should focus on specific climate change issues relevant to the applicant’s country, and while they can be in any language, they must include a short English synopsis.
Judging Criteria
The selection committee will be looking for applicants who demonstrate a strong track record in covering climate change, climate policy, and related environmental topics. A clear, specific, and detailed coverage plan for COP31, including potential story ideas, is essential. Applicants should also be able to provide an estimated number of stories they plan to produce during the fellowship. A confirmed relationship with an established media house, backed by a signed letter of support from an editor agreeing to publish or broadcast the work produced at COP31, is a significant factor in the evaluation process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the EJN COP31 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship?
Professional journalists from or representing media houses in eligible low- and middle-income countries who have not previously attended a COP in person are eligible.
What costs does the fellowship cover?
The fellowship covers non-refundable economy airfare, accommodation, meals, travel medical insurance, ground transportation, and visa costs.
What kind of support will fellows receive during COP31?
Fellows will get operational support, editorial guidance from experienced trainers, daily briefings, one-on-one mentoring, and opportunities for interviews and networking.
What materials are required for the application?
Applicants need a resume/CV, a short video on reporting plans, a letter of support from an editor, and at least three recent climate change work samples with an English synopsis.
