Applications are now open for the Expression of Interest (EOI) to host a session at the Children & Youth Resilience Hub during UNCCD COP17 under the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope.”. This is a unique opportunity for youth-led organizations, civil society groups, Indigenous youth, researchers, practitioners, and partners to showcase innovative solutions, facilitate discussions, and elevate youth voices on land restoration, drought resilience, and sustainable development at one of the world’s leading environmental conferences.
The Children & Youth Resilience Hub will serve as a dynamic platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, collaboration, and action, bringing together young leaders and stakeholders working to address land degradation, desertification, drought, and climate resilience. Selected sessions will form part of the official youth engagement activities during UNCCD COP17, taking place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, from 17–28 August 2026.
Session Themes
Proposed sessions should contribute to one or more of the following themes:
- Land Restoration
- Drought Resilience
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Youth Leadership
- Children’s Participation
- Sustainable Land Management
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Indigenous Knowledge
- Food Systems
- Water Security
- Nature-Based Solutions
- Green Entrepreneurship
- Environmental Education
- Innovation and Technology
- Community Resilience
Sessions should encourage participation, collaboration, and practical solutions that advance resilience and sustainable land management.
Who Can Apply?
Expressions of Interest are welcome from:
- Youth-led organizations
- Civil society organizations (CSOs)
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Youth networks
- Indigenous Peoples’ organizations
- Academic and research institutions
- International organizations
- Development partners
- Environmental practitioners
- Community-based organizations
- Government institutions working with youth
Collaborative proposals involving multiple organizations are encouraged.
Session Formats
Applicants may propose engaging and interactive formats, including:
- Panel discussions
- Interactive workshops
- Fireside chats
- Training sessions
- Storytelling sessions
- Youth dialogues
- Networking events
- Innovation showcases
- Knowledge-sharing forums
Sessions should promote meaningful youth participation and encourage interaction among participants.
Benefits
Selected organizers will have the opportunity to:
- Host a session during the UNCCD COP17 Children & Youth Resilience Hub.
- Showcase innovative projects, research, and community initiatives to a global audience.
- Connect with youth leaders, policymakers, researchers, UN agencies, and development partners.
- Build partnerships and expand professional networks.
- Contribute to global discussions on land restoration, drought resilience, and climate action.
- Increase the visibility of their organization and initiatives during one of the world’s premier environmental conferences.
Please note that selection to host a session does not automatically include funding for travel, accommodation, or conference participation. Applicants should carefully review the official guidance regarding participation and logistics.
Why You Should Apply
The Children & Youth Resilience Hub offers an influential platform for young leaders and organizations to shape global conversations on land restoration, drought resilience, and sustainable development. By hosting a session at UNCCD COP17, participants can share innovative solutions, amplify youth perspectives, foster cross-sector collaboration, and contribute to international efforts to combat desertification and build resilient communities.
No official application deadline has been announced. Apply as early as possible before the COP17 programme and session schedule are finalized.
