Applications are now open for the 3rd UNESCO World Youth Forum on Man and Animals 2026. This international forum will be held in Rosolina Mare, Italy , from May 18 to 22, 2026. Approximately 200 participants from around the world will take part in the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB). UNESCO will cover food, accommodation, and limited travel expenses. The theme of the 3rd World Youth Forum of the Action for Biodiversity is "Committed to the Future We Want." This program aligns with the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026-2035) and reflects the MAB Youth Programme's enhanced commitment to addressing biodiversity loss, climate change, and sustainable development. This is an exceptional opportunity for young people worldwide. There is no application fee , and all expenses are covered for the selected group of 200 participants. More details are below.
About the Third UNESCO World Youth Forum on Man and Animals 2026
- Host country : Italy
- Location : Rosolina Marie
- Duration : 5 days
- Dates : May 18 to May 22, 2026
- Advantages : Fully funded
- Number of participants : 200
- Deadline: March 23, 2026
Financial advantages
The program covers:
- travel expenses
- Accommodation
- food
What is UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB)?
Think of the Human and the Biosphere as a global club of "living nature parks." Most parks expel people to protect animals; Human and the Biosphere attempts to maintain the happiness and health of both people and animals.
- The goal: To stop fighting nature and start living with it .
- Places: There are over 700 special "biosphere" areas in the world (forests, islands, mountains) where people experience green ideas.
Eligibility criteria
- Age: Young adults between 18 and 35 years old
- Connection: There should be effective engagement with a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve .
- Types of participation:
- Living or working within a rural area.
- Studying or conducting scientific research
- Volunteering or supporting BR-related activities.
Goals
- Strategy Implementation: Leading the Hangzhou Action Plan (2026-2035) , with a focus on expanding the MAB Youth Network
- Practical outcomes: Transforming the results of the Youth Mapping Survey into concrete local and global action plans.
- Sharing Innovation: Sharing youth-led success stories in biodiversity and sustainability from across biosphere reserves.
- Leadership building: Strengthening capabilities and coordination among young leaders worldwide.
- Impact on governance: Developing formal recommendations and strategies to give young people a permanent seat in the decision-making process at MAB.
How to apply?
Applicants must submit an online expression of interest using the application form(s). The official website link is below.