EJN Reporting Fellowships 2026 for BBNJ COP1 in New York City

The Earth Journalism Network is offering a fully funded three-year fellowship programme. The first round will send 10 journalists to New York City to cover the historic BBNJ COP1 conference in January 2027.

Organised by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network, the EJN Reporting Fellowships 2026 will support professional journalists to report on the inaugural Conference of the Parties to the agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction. Selected fellows will attend the full conference, which runs from 11 to 22 January 2027. They must be available to travel to New York City from 9 to 23 January. The fellowship covers all travel and accommodation costs.

Eligibility and application requirements

Applicants must be professional journalists or freelancers with proven experience reporting on ocean issues. This includes topics like illegal fishing, marine protected areas, the blue economy, sustainable fisheries, or marine pollution.

All applicants must be based in or reporting from a coastal country. They need a good command of English. A signed letter of support from an editor or media outlet is mandatory, guaranteeing publication or broadcast of work produced during the fellowship. Freelancers must secure this letter from an outlet they intend to report for.

Candidates must submit an up-to-date CV and recent work samples. These samples should be published within the last 12 months and have a clear byline. Work in any language is acceptable if accompanied by a short English synopsis. Applicants must also clearly outline the kinds of stories they plan to pursue at the conference.

Benefits and support provided

Selected fellows receive comprehensive logistical and financial support for their assignment. The fellowship covers non-refundable economy class airfare, accommodation in New York City, and meals. It also includes a per diem for daily expenses, ground transportation, and travel medical insurance.

EJN staff will facilitate the press accreditation process and provide logistics support for trip planning. Visa costs will be reimbursed, though acquiring the visa remains the fellow's responsibility. An orientation day organised by EJN staff is scheduled for 10 January 2027, the day before the conference begins.

Selection criteria and programme goals

Judges will prioritise applicants who demonstrate a long-term commitment to journalism and continued reporting on ocean and environmental topics. Proven experience in this field is a key criterion. The relationship with an established media house, evidenced by the signed letter of support, is also key.

The programme aims to ensure equal representation from the Global North and the Global South among its fellows. The goal is to foster diverse and informed global reporting on the landmark ocean biodiversity agreement as it moves into its implementation phase.

Applications for the EJN Reporting Fellowships 2026 close on 27 October 2026. Selected fellows will be notified in time to prepare for travel to New York City for the BBNJ COP1.