2026 Italy–AOSIS Fellowship Programme | Fully Funded Opportunity in New York

 2026 Italy–AOSIS Fellowship Programme | Fully Funded Opportunity in New York

About the Fellowship

The Italy–AOSIS Fellowship Programme 2026 is a fully funded year-long training and professional development opportunity for young professionals from Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The programme equips Fellows with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in international law, climate change policy, environmental protection, oceans management, and sustainable development, while working directly with their national delegations at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

This Fellowship is jointly supported by the Government of Italy and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS).

 Host Organization:

Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) – in partnership with the Government of Italy

 Location:

United Nations Headquarters, New York, USA

 Duration:

1 year (2026)

 Application Deadline:

December 5, 2025

 About the AOSIS Fellowship

The AOSIS Fellowship Programme was created to strengthen the capacity of young professionals from SIDS to engage effectively in global environmental and sustainable development negotiations.

Fellows receive practical diplomatic experience, technical training, and policy exposure—empowering them to represent their countries in high-level UN negotiations and international environmental processes.

After completing the programme, Fellows return to their home countries to apply their new skills and knowledge in government or policy-making roles.

 What Fellows Can Expect

During the one-year fellowship, participants will:

•  Receive training on issues of climate change, international law, sustainable development, environmental policy, and ocean governance.

•  Undergo media and communication training to effectively share key messages with global audiences.

•  Gain real-world negotiation experience through active participation in UN meetings and conferences.

•  Work directly with AOSIS member delegations, contributing to research, drafting, and coordination of climate and sustainability policies.

•  Participate in major international events, representing their nations and AOSIS.

 Fellowship Candidate Requirements

To be eligible for the 2026 AOSIS Fellowship, candidates must:

1. Be a national of an AOSIS member country (Small Island Developing State).

2. Be aged 25 to 32 years at the start of the programme.

3. Hold a degree in a relevant field, such as:

   • International Relations

   • International Law

   • Environmental Studies

   • Climate Change

   • Sustainable Development

   • Fisheries or Ocean Policy

   • Finance or related disciplines

4. Have 1–3 years (maximum 5 years) of relevant professional experience in:

   • National government, or

   • Regional or international organizations.

5. Commit to working in their national government after completing the fellowship.

6. Demonstrate strong academic performance, excellent writing skills, and professional maturity.

7. Be fluent in written and spoken English.

 Fellowship Terms and Benefits

Fellows selected for the AOSIS Fellowship Programme will receive the following benefits:

• Roundtrip economy airfare to New York City.

• $5,000 settling-in allowance upon arrival.

• Laptop and mobile phone for the duration of the Fellowship.

• $4,000 monthly stipend (to cover housing and living costs).

• Travel budget for attending major international meetings and conferences.

• Full access to UN and AOSIS training sessions, mentorship, and professional networking opportunities.

 Fellowship Responsibilities

Selected Fellows will:

• Work full-time in New York under the supervision of AOSIS Fellowship Directors and their national missions.

• Report regularly to AOSIS on activities, priorities, and progress.

• Participate actively in UN negotiations and meetings on behalf of their countries.

• Attend training workshops and professional development sessions organized by AOSIS.

• Support research, documentation, and reporting on environmental and climate policy issues.

 About AOSIS

The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) is a coalition of 39 small island and low-lying coastal developing countries that work together to advocate for climate justice, ocean protection, and sustainable development.

Founded in 1990, AOSIS plays a leading role in global climate negotiations, especially in advancing the Paris Agreement, ocean conservation, and renewable energy transition efforts for vulnerable island nations.

 How to Apply for the 2026 Italy–AOSIS Fellowship

Interested and qualified candidates should:

1. Download the official application form from the AOSIS Fellowship page:
   Download Application Form

2. Complete the form carefully, ensuring all details are accurate and up to date.

3. Prepare the following supporting documents:

   • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

   • Cover Letter explaining your motivation and career goals

   • Academic transcripts and certificates

   • Proof of nationality (passport copy)

   • Letters of recommendation (if required)

4. Send your completed application and all required documents to:
   fellowship@aosis.org

5. Submit your application before the deadline — December 5, 2025.

 Key Dates

• Application Opens: October 2025

• Application Deadline: December 5, 2025

• Interviews: January–February 2026

• Programme Commencement: Mid-2026 (Exact date to be confirmed)

 Why Apply for the AOSIS Fellowship?

• Gain direct experience working at the United Nations Headquarters.

• Receive comprehensive training from international experts in climate diplomacy.

• Join a prestigious global network of AOSIS alumni across 39 countries.

• Build a long-term career in environmental policy and diplomacy.

• Contribute meaningfully to global sustainable development goals (SDGs).

 Official Website and Contact

For full details, visit the official AOSIS page:
https://www.aosis.org/2026-italy-aosis-fellowship-application-deadline-5-dec-2024/

Contact Email: fellowship@aosis.org