The Global Youth Water Envoys Program selects 100 young people from across the world to take part in global water governance around the 2026 UN Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal in Abu Dhabi. It is run by the Arab Youth Center in strategic partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with support from the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, and is endorsed by the Conference Presidencies. From September to November 2026, selected envoys complete a remote capacity-building journey — foundational training, thematic specialization, and direct engagement with national delegations.
Selected delegates then contribute to the Interactive Dialogues at the conference in December 2026 and help develop a Global Youth Statement. The aim is to place youth as contributors to the conference outcomes, not just observers.
Benefits & funding
- A place in a global cohort of 100 Youth Water Envoys, plus an alumni network for ongoing engagement.
- Remote training and mentorship from water-sector experts, at no cost to participants.
- Direct engagement with policymakers, national delegations, and international organizations.
- A role in shaping the Global Youth Statement and contributing to the conference’s Interactive Dialogues.
- Note: the official page does not state whether travel or accommodation for the December conference in Abu Dhabi is covered — confirm with the organizer before assuming support.
Eligibility
- Aged 18–35 at the time of the 2026 UN Water Conference.
- Proficiency in English, the program’s working language.
- Interest or relevant experience in water governance, public policy, climate action, sustainability, innovation, finance, or related water fields.
- Open to applicants worldwide; selection is merit-based with attention to geographic diversity. Applicants from water-stressed regions (Africa, the Arab States, and Asia and the Pacific) receive priority consideration.
- Expect to commit roughly 3–4 hours per week during the active program period.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Age requirement
18–35 yrs
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Application process
- 1Review the eligibility criteria on the official program page.
- 2Complete the online registration form via the Arab Youth Center portal.
- 3Submit before the deadline; selection is merit-based with emphasis on geographic diversity.
Program timeline
Application deadline (12:00 AM Abu Dhabi time)
13 August 2026
Remote capacity-building — training, specialization, delegation engagement
September–November 2026
8–10 December 2026
2026 UN Water Conference, Abu Dhabi