The UN Youth4Disarmament Champions Programme 2026–2027 is now open to applications. Interested young people should apply by 28 June 23:59 (EDT).
This one-year fellowship will select nine young people aged 18 to 29 to design and implement individual disarmament projects. The programme combines online learning, mentorship, networking, and at least one in-person study trip to a relevant intergovernmental disarmament meeting or another related meeting.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: Apply by 28 June 23:59 (EDT)
Eligible Countries: Open to applicants from eligible countries worldwide
Program Duration: One year (programme begins August 2026 and ends summer 2027). Training requires approximately 5–10 hours per week; study trips are full-time commitments of about one week.
Program Location: Global participation; programme delivered online with at least one in-person trip to an intergovernmental disarmament meeting or other relevant meeting during the year.
Funding/Benefits: A stipend to advance your individual project
Award Provider: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) / Youth4Disarmament
About this Program
The programme is organized by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) / Youth4Disarmament. It supports young peace and security leaders who want to build practical projects in the field of disarmament.
During the fellowship year, selected Champions will take part in online training on disarmament and project management. In addition, they will join thematic webinars, receive individual mentorship, and connect with current and past Champions.
Fellows will also design, plan, and implement their own disarmament projects. Depending on their project and interests, they may present perspectives at global disarmament meetings.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be 18–29 years old at the time of applying.
- Applicants should have an idea for a project in the field of disarmament to work on during the programme.
- Applicants should show passion and motivation to advance the project and learn about disarmament.
- Applicants should have a good command of English, at least B2 level.
- Some previous knowledge or background in peace, security, disarmament, weapons management, or a similar field is considered an asset.
What Fellows Receive: Online training on disarmament and project management, thematic webinars, individual mentorship by UNODA or UNODA-identified mentors, networking with fellow and previous Champions, a stipend to advance individual projects or opportunity to contribute to a disarmament-related publication, and at least one trip to an intergovernmental disarmament process or other relevant meeting.
Program Components
Design, plan, and implement an individual disarmament project during the programme.
Participate in online training courses and thematic webinars.
Engage in individual mentorship managed by UNODA.
Present perspectives at global disarmament meetings based on project and interest.
Participate in at least one study trip, which is a full-time commitment of about one week.
How to Apply
Applicants should complete the online application form through the programme application portal. Before applying, review the official programme page carefully for full guidance and updates.
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
