Are you 18 to 30 years old and want to learn about environmental peacebuilding? Do you want to develop and implement an action to address environmental issues in an intercommunal team?
Then this is your opportunity to become part of the inspiring network of the UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace and make your voice heard!
About the programme
Through our regional Youth Connect programme, and in collaboration with UNFICYP, we are pleased to offer the acclaimed UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace programme that will focus on environmental peacebuilding and the delivery of actions to address common environmental concerns.
The programme will include an immersive workshop on 5, 6, 7 and 13 September 2025 that will equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to develop their own environmental actions in teams.
The environmental actions need to be implemented by January 2026.
The programme is taking place at a time where the need to transition our societies to become sustainable is more urgent than ever and where the effects of climate change are leading to insecurity and inequality around the world.
We are looking for dynamic and passionate young people from all communities living in Cyprus to embark on an exciting journey with us. Together with experts, trainers and activists, we will explore, learn and co-create initiatives that foster intercommunal trust, environmental peacebuilding and sustainable development.
The programme is specifically designed to engage and empower young people in Cyprus to take an active role in peacebuilding to foster dialogue, build trust and promote joint actions by addressing common environmental concerns. By the end of the programme, participants will become connected with local and international organisations, activists and the inspiring network of Youth Champions.
The deadline for applications is 24 August 2025. Participation is free.
Eligibility criteria
Participants need to:
- be aged 18-30 from any community and living in Cyprus
- have an interest in the environment and peace and becoming active in these issues
- be committed and motivated to actively participate throughout the workshop (5, 6, 7 and 13 September 2025) and implement an environmental action as part of a team
- have a good knowledge of English
- have a wish to develop interpersonal relations with participants from all communities living in Cyprus and to work together for a common cause
- have a desire to find out more about the work of the UN and the British Council related to youth action on climate crisis and what the UN does in Cyprus.
The call is only open to people that did not benefit from previous UN Youth Champions programmes. No previous experience in environmental peacebuilding and activism is required.
We strive for gender diversity and equal representation among youth from all communities living in Cyprus.
Accommodation in Nicosia may be available for participants during the first weekend-long workshop of the programme, based on demand. Please note that availability is limited and subject to confirmation.
Participation is contingent to your ability to enter the UN buffer zone in Nicosia as all activities will be held at the Ledra Palace Hotel. Please note that the respective sides have the authority over entry from the crossing points, and not the UN. Please ensure you have the required documentation to enter the buffer zone.
What to expect
Workshop
In-person workshop in the buffer zone in Nicosia that will focus on joint learning. It will include lectures, interactive sessions and discussions with experts from the UN and UN agencies in Cyprus and abroad, the British Council, young climate and peacebuilding activists, and group work. In the group work you will get to know the other participants, form teams and work together to develop environmental actions with the support of our team and environmental organisations.
Implementation of environmental actions
On completion of the workshop, participants are expected to finalise their project idea and apply for funding.
Each team will receive a small grant to implement its action by January 2026 with the support of mentors.
The actions will need to reach people across the divide and can take place throughout Cyprus.
Participation during all days of the workshop on 5, 6 ,7 and 13 September 2025 is mandatory.
Certificates of participation will be provided to those who attend all days of the workshop and actively contribute to the actions.
How to apply
To take part in the programme, complete the online application form by Sunday 24 August 2025 (23.00 Cyprus time):
Participation is free.
Applicants may be contacted to provide further information. We aim to notify successful applicants by Wednesday 27 August 2025. Applicants that had applied by the previous deadline of 21 July 2025 may receive an email notification to confirm their participation. Selected participants will receive a detailed programme for the workshop later on.
Information
For any further information about the programme, please contact UNFICYP at unficyp-youthchampions@un.org.
Disclaimer
The views, thoughts and opinions expressed by the individuals or group designated as UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace are expressed in their personal capacity and do not necessarily represent the views of the United Nations, UNFICYP and the British Council, their officials or personnel.
Being part of the Youth Champions initiative does not imply a full-time role nor any form of employment by the UN and British Council. Participation in the initiative is honorary, nonremunerated (no UN emoluments nor entitlements) and does not entail speaking on behalf of the UN, UNFICYP or British Council, nor UN privileges and immunities for participants.