Fully Funded Youth Climate Action Academy for SB60 Bonn 2024

The Youth Climate Action Academy, supported by the German Federal Foreign Office and the UN System Staff College, offered a fully funded programme to prepare young leaders for the UNFCCC SB60 (3–13 June 2024) in Bonn, Germany. The application deadline was 26 April 2024, but this recap highlights the opportunity for future reference, as similar programmes may be available for SB62 (16–26 June 2025).

Programme Overview

The Academy equipped youth with skills for climate conference engagement through a blend of online and in-person sessions. Selected fellows received funding to attend SB60, enhancing their ability to influence global climate policy. Key components included:

• Online Sessions: Informational webinar (7 May 2024), capacity-building workshops (28–30 May 2024).

• In-Person Sessions: Face-to-face training (7–8 June 2024) in Bonn.

• SB60 Attendance: Funded participation on selected days (10–14 June 2024, TBC).

• Funding: Covered flights, accommodation, meals, and local transport via a daily allowance and travel assistance fee.

• Objective: Build advocacy skills, foster youth-led climate action, and amplify diverse voices in UNFCCC processes.

Note: Participants were responsible for securing their own visas, with no guarantee of programme completion if visas were denied.

Eligibility

Applicants needed to:

• Be aged 18–32 during the programme.

• Be fluent in English.

• Have experience in training or capacity-building programs.

• Hold Observer accreditation through a youth organization or network.

• Be actively involved in youth networks or groups.

• Commit to sharing knowledge with their communities.

• Represent diverse regions, genders, and ages for balanced cohort selection.

Why It Mattered

SB60 was a critical preparatory meeting for COP29, addressing the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance, Global Goal on Adaptation, and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Youth participants influenced discussions on equitable finance and adaptation, contributing to outcomes like the $300 billion annual climate finance pledge by 2035. The Academy empowered fellows to navigate UNFCCC processes, network with global leaders, and advocate for inclusive climate policies.

Application Process (Closed for SB60)

• Deadline: 26 April 2024, 23:59 GMT.

• Process: Submit an online form via the Academy’s portal, detailing climate experience, youth network involvement, and motivation.

• Selection: Successful candidates received confirmation by 3 May 2024, with instructions for visa and travel arrangements.

• Link: Youth Climate Action Academy Application (inactive for SB60).

Looking Ahead: SB62 (16–26 June 2025)

While SB60 applications are closed, the Youth Climate Action Academy may offer a similar programme for SB62. Interested youth should monitor the UN System Staff College or German Federal Foreign Office websites for updates, expected in early 2025, to apply for funding and training opportunities.

link: https://de.surveymonkey.com/r/ycca