EJN COP31 Fellowship: Reporting on Climate Change in Antalya

Reporting on Climate Change: The EJN COP31 Fellowship Opportunity

Covering climate change is more important than ever. As the world grapples with its effects, journalists play a key role in informing the public about these critical issues. For those looking to deepen their expertise and gain direct experience, the EJN COP31 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship offers a unique chance. This fellowship allows journalists from low- and middle-income countries to report from the heart of the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31).

This program, led by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) and the Stanley Center for Peace and Security, has a history of supporting journalists. Since 2007, it has helped over 550 journalists cover the annual UN climate talks. This year, the fellowship is also opening its doors to independent creator journalists who use digital platforms to share climate-related news. The COP31 conference will be held in Antalya, Türkiye, from November 9-20, 2026.

What the Fellowship Offers

The EJN COP31 fellowship provides significant support to selected participants. Fellows will attend the full two weeks of the UN climate negotiations in Antalya. The program covers essential travel and living expenses, allowing journalists to focus on their reporting.

Financial and Logistical Support

The fellowship includes coverage for non-refundable economy-class airfare, accommodation, meals, and travel medical insurance. Ground transportation costs related to the fellowship are also covered. While participants are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas, the fellowship will reimburse these costs. Organizers will also assist with the press accreditation process.

Accommodation will be arranged by the organizers, with a preference for single occupancy rooms. However, participants should be prepared for the possibility of shared housing. A small stipend will be provided to help with meals and other incidental expenses during the fellowship.

Reporting Resources and Editorial Guidance

Fellows will benefit from the guidance of experienced EJN trainers, who are senior journalists with expertise in covering UN climate summits. Before COP31 begins, participants will receive informational resources and technical support. This includes a virtual workshop to meet trainers, discuss reporting opportunities, and ask questions.

Once in Antalya, fellows will attend an in-person orientation session. This session will feature seasoned climate journalists and experts discussing key issues for COP31. Specially designed activities on the ground will include daily briefings and one-on-one discussions with mentors. Fellows will have access to a dedicated Trello board for information and resources and will be part of a group chat for sharing information and asking questions. They are also encouraged to seek feedback on their story ideas and drafts from the EJN trainers.

Networking and Interview Opportunities

The fellowship organizers will arrange group interviews with high-level officials and subject matter experts. Fellows will also have opportunities to connect with other journalists and participate in cohort-building activities, such as group meals and local excursions. Selected fellows might even be invited to speak or moderate at official and unofficial side events during the summit.

Who Should Apply

The fellowship is designed for journalists and creator journalists who are passionate about covering climate change. Specific eligibility requirements ensure that participants can make the most of this opportunity.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants 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, Türkiye, for the entire two weeks of COP31. A good command of the English language is necessary.

Previous experience reporting on climate change issues is essential, and applicants must clearly state the types of stories they plan to pursue during the conference. Participants must commit to attending all fellowship activities.

Application Requirements

To apply, candidates need to submit an up-to-date resume or CV. A video, no longer than two minutes, explaining their planned reporting at COP31 is also required. Applicants must provide a letter of support from an editor, producer, or supervisor who can confirm their news 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 work.

A minimum of three recent, relevant journalistic work samples on climate change topics, published between May 15, 2025, and June 15, 2026, must be submitted. These can be documents or web links. Stories should focus on specific climate change topics relevant to the applicant’s country. While stories can be in any language, they must include a short English synopsis.

Judging the Applications

The selection committee looks for applicants who demonstrate a strong background in covering climate change, climate policy, and related environmental topics. A clear, specific, and detailed coverage plan for COP31, including potential story ideas, is highly valued. Applicants should also be able to estimate the number of stories they expect to produce during the fellowship. A confirmed relationship with an established media house and a signed letter of support from an editor are also important factors.

Conclusion

The EJN COP31 Climate Change Media Partnership Reporting Fellowship is an exceptional opportunity for journalists to gain firsthand experience covering global climate negotiations. By providing financial support, editorial guidance, and networking opportunities, the fellowship empowers journalists to bring vital climate stories back to their audiences. If you are a journalist with a passion for climate reporting and meet the eligibility criteria, consider applying for this impactful program.