UNICEF Iraq, in cooperation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Environment, announces that applications are open for Iraqi youth to be considered for selection (2–3 young people) to join the Iraqi youth delegation at the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), to be held in Antalya, Türkiye, from 9 to 20 November 2026.

Selected participants are expected to attend for a limited period of two to three days during the conference, mainly linked to children and youth events and agenda. The actual days of participation will be determined later according to the approved programme and arrangements. This invitation does not mean the selected youth will attend the entire duration of COP31.

Expected role of selected youth:

• Represent the voices and climate priorities of Iraqi youth, especially issues affecting children, youth and communities in Iraq.
• Take an active part in sessions, dialogues and events related to children, youth and climate action during their assigned days.
• Contribute, depending on the programme and available opportunities, to activities related to Iraq's participation and engage with youth and participants from other countries.
• Contribute to dialogues and discussions and, when opportunities arise, to sessions or activities on climate issues and the role of youth.
• Share key knowledge and lessons learned with youth and relevant stakeholders in Iraq after the conference.
• Take part, when needed, in orientation or preparatory sessions before travel.

How to apply: Complete an online form with personal details and questions on climate experience and motivation (maximum 150 words per answer), plus an introductory video in English of no more than 60 seconds answering: what is the main climate challenge facing Iraq today and how does it affect youth and local communities? The video should be uploaded to Google Drive with viewing enabled for anyone with the link, or to YouTube as Unlisted.

Selection process: Applications are reviewed by a joint committee of representatives from UNICEF, the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Environment. Submitting an application, being shortlisted or being invited to an interview does not confirm selection, travel or participation in COP31. Final confirmation depends on completing the selection process, coordination, approvals and related organizational and logistical arrangements.

Application deadline: 1 November 2026.

• Age between 18 and 24.
• Iraqi youth (the form is intended for residents of Iraqi governorates) holding a valid Iraqi passport.
• Ability to communicate and take part in discussions in English at a level that allows effective participation in conference activities.
• Knowledge and understanding of climate issues and challenges in Iraq and their impact on children, youth and local communities.
• Relevant experience or previous involvement in climate, environmental or sustainability work (community initiatives, volunteering, research, awareness, advocacy, innovation, or participation in climate dialogues and policy).
• A clear personal role in the experiences or initiatives mentioned, and what the applicant learned or contributed.
• Communication and teamwork skills and the ability to express the priorities of youth in Iraq clearly and constructively.
• Motivation to participate and readiness to contribute actively during preparation, the participation days and after the conference.
• The selection committee considers gender balance, age diversity, geographic diversity and diversity of experience and backgrounds, provided candidates meet the core criteria.

• An opportunity to join the Iraqi youth delegation at COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye, for two to three days.
• Representing the voices of Iraqi youth in children, youth and climate action events.
• Engaging with youth and participants from other countries.
• Orientation or preparatory sessions before travel when needed.
• Funding details (travel, accommodation and costs) are not specified in the announcement.