The Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS), together with the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union | Global Dialogue, is launching an open call for eight young climate leaders to join the Climate Leadership Programme, running from December 2026 to March 2027. It is a joint initiative to support young people who are already active in climate policy, advocacy or entrepreneurship in their own contexts.

Programme phases:

• December 2026 to February 2027: online masterclasses and skills training on EU climate governance, diplomacy, policy writing and communication. Attendance is mandatory, and only participants who complete this phase proceed to Brussels.
• 28 February to 6 March 2027: a week in Brussels for first-hand insight into the EU policy landscape, including CEPS Ideas Lab on 4 and 5 March 2027, which brings together policymakers, researchers, business leaders and civil society. Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung will also organise a complementary side programme, with details shared with selected participants.

How to apply:

• A CV.
• A reference letter (in English).
• A completed written application questionnaire.

Send the CV and reference letter to the email address given in the announcement by 10 November 2026, 23:59 CET, with “Climate Leadership Programme – [Full Name]” in the subject line. Only complete applications will be considered. (The announcement also lists 11 November 2026 as the deadline, so applying by 10 November is advised.) Successful applicants will be notified by the end of November 2026.

Key dates:

• Application opening: 29 October 2026
• Application deadline: 11 November 2026, 23:59 CET
• Online programme: December 2026 – February 2027
• Programme in Brussels: 28 February – 6 March 2027

• Aged 20–30.
• A strong interest in climate action and current engagement in climate policy, advocacy or entrepreneurship in the applicant's own context.
• A specific initiative, such as a policy proposal, an advocacy campaign or a venture.
• A good command of English and the ability to take part in online sessions and activities in Brussels.
• Availability for the online programme from December 2026 to February 2027 and the Brussels programme from 28 February to 6 March 2027.

Applications are open to candidates worldwide. Applicants are particularly welcome from countries including Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Syria and Tunisia, along with other countries listed in the announcement. The programme aims for a gender-balanced cohort with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.

• Travel, visa and accommodation costs covered for the Brussels week.
• Online masterclasses and skills training on EU climate governance, diplomacy, policy writing and communication.
• Participation in CEPS Ideas Lab in Brussels on 4 and 5 March 2027.
• A side programme organised by Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung in Brussels.
• Networking with climate leaders from around the world and the European policy community.