Apply Now: 2026 UNFCCC Youth Event in Bonn for Climate Leaders

Young climate leaders have a chance to make a real impact at the 2026 UNFCCC Action for Climate Empowerment Hub Youth Event in Bonn, Germany. This event gathers youth from around the world to build skills in climate action and connect local efforts with global change. Applications are open now, with a deadline of April 10, 2026.

Event Overview

The UNFCCC Action for Climate Empowerment Hub Youth Event focuses on education, public awareness, training, access to information, and participation in climate action. It takes place from June 4 to 6, 2026, right before the 64th session of the Subsidiary Bodies in Bonn. Organized by the German regional government of North Rhine-Westphalia, the event highlights how youth can lead through innovation and community engagement.

Participants will join three days of hands-on training. Topics include meaningful youth roles in policymaking, skill-building, and using informal ways to raise climate awareness and promote sustainable habits. An off-campus trip to Düsseldorf will show local climate projects in action. Attendees can also help form an alumni network for future work.

Dates and Location

The main event runs June 4-6, 2026, in Bonn, Germany. Funded international youth should arrive on June 3 and depart on June 7. The program is in-person only and fully in English. It partners with groups like YOUNGO, the Official Children and Youth Constituency of the UNFCCC.

Who Can Apply

Youth aged 18 to 35 qualify if they meet these rules:

• Fluent in spoken English.
• Available for the full in-person event.
• No past attendance at prior ACE Hub Youth Events, like the 2022 exchanges, hackathon, or 2023-2025 events.
• Interest or experience in climate education, awareness, training, participation, or information access.
• Best fit: Active in local climate work with cities, municipalities, or community initiatives.

For NRW spots, applicants must live in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The event seeks diverse backgrounds, disciplines, genders, and regions for balance.

Funding and Participant Spots

The program funds 15 youth from NRW and at least 5 international youth, including 2 Indigenous or from local communities. Self-funded youth planning to attend SB64 can apply too, but must confirm funding upfront.

Funded participants get travel arrangements (with possible personal changes at extra cost), a Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA) for event days only, and visa support letters if needed. No extra DSA for SB64 attendance. Attendees handle their own visas, insurance, and pre-event funds due to payment delays.

Accreditation for SB64 may go to those interested in the ACE Dialogue 2026, granting access to non-negotiation events as “invited participants.” No deferrals; miss it, reapply later.

Selection Process

YOUNGO handles selections for fairness and inclusion. They prioritize geographical balance, gender equity, and diverse fields. All backgrounds are welcome.

Programme Highlights

Expect interactive modules on youth policymaking input, community engagement, and scaling ideas locally. Networking and exchanges build skills to take home. The Düsseldorf excursion links city-level action to global goals.

How to Apply

Submit by April 10, 2026. Check the official UNFCCC webpage for the application form and details. Prepare to show your climate experience and why you fit. Selected youth get confirmation and next steps soon after. This is your shot to gain tools, connect, and drive change.

Frequently Asked Questions