Are you a young climate leader looking to participate in global climate discussions and contribute to the youth agenda ahead of COP31? Applications are now open for the 21st Conference of Children and Youth on Climate Change (COY21), taking place in Antalya, Türkiye, from 5–7 November 2026.
Organized by YOUNGO, the official Children and Youth Constituency of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), COY21 will bring together young people from around the world to build capacity, strengthen climate advocacy, develop practical skills, and contribute to the global youth climate agenda ahead of COP31.
What Is COY21?
The Conference of Youth (COY) is the world’s largest and most significant gathering of children and young people focused on climate change.
COY serves as an important preparatory space for young people before the annual UN Climate Change Conference. Through workshops, training, discussions and advocacy activities, participants develop the knowledge and skills needed to engage meaningfully in international climate policy processes.
COY21 2026 will provide young people with opportunities to:
- Build knowledge and leadership skills on climate change.
- Participate in climate advocacy and youth diplomacy.
- Engage in negotiation-aligned sessions ahead of COP31.
- Share local and regional perspectives on climate challenges.
- Contribute to the global youth climate agenda.
- Connect with young climate leaders from around the world.
- Prepare collectively for participation in the COP31 process.
COY21 Delegate Opportunity 2026
Applications are now being invited from motivated young leaders interested in joining the COY21 Delegation.
Selected delegates will represent their communities, countries or regions, participate in international youth climate diplomacy, and contribute to shaping global youth priorities ahead of COP31.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the COY21 Delegate opportunity, applicants must:
- Be under 35 years old at the time of COY21.
- Demonstrate an interest in or engagement with climate action, youth leadership or policy advocacy at local, regional or international level.
- Commit to participating actively in pre- and post-COY21 delegation preparations, meetings and follow-up activities.
- Be able to self-fund travel to Antalya, Türkiye.
What Are COY21 Delegates Expected to Contribute?
COY21 is seeking diverse, passionate and engaged young people who can:
- Represent their community, country or region internationally.
- Bring strong local perspectives to COY21 discussions and outcomes.
- Contribute to climate justice, climate policy and grassroots climate action.
- Share experiences and perspectives from their communities.
- Take knowledge, connections and commitments from COY21 back home to strengthen climate action.
Diversity and Representation
The final selection process will seek to ensure balanced representation across gender, geographic regions and thematic expertise.
This means young people from diverse backgrounds and with different experiences in climate action, policy, advocacy and grassroots work are encouraged to apply.
Important Application Requirement
The use of AI to complete the application form is prohibited. Applications may be disqualified if it is determined that AI was used to complete the form.
Applicants should therefore ensure that their responses accurately reflect their own experiences, perspectives and ideas.
COY21 2026 Key Details
| Opportunity | COY21 Delegate |
|---|---|
| Event | 21st Conference of Children and Youth on Climate Change |
| Location | Antalya, Türkiye |
| Dates | 5–7 November 2026 |
| Age limit | Under 35 |
| Focus | Climate action, youth leadership, advocacy and policy |
| Travel | Self-funded |
| Deadline | 5 September 2026 |
How to Apply for COY21 2026
Young climate leaders interested in joining the COY21 delegation should submit their Expression of Interest before the deadline.
Application deadline: 5 September 2026
For questions about the application or delegation, contact:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is COY21?
COY21 is the 21st Conference of Children and Youth on Climate Change, bringing young people together ahead of COP31 to build capacity, advocate for climate action and contribute to the global youth climate agenda.
Where will COY21 2026 take place?
COY21 will take place in Antalya, Türkiye, from 5–7 November 2026.
Who can apply for the COY21 delegation?
Young people under 35 years old who demonstrate engagement or interest in climate action, youth leadership or policy advocacy can apply.
Is COY21 fully funded?
Applicants must be able to self-fund their travel to the venue. Applicants should review the official application information for any additional arrangements or support available.
When is the COY21 application deadline?
The deadline to submit an Expression of Interest is 5 September 2026.
Why should young people participate in COY21?
COY21 offers young leaders an opportunity to connect with peers globally, strengthen climate advocacy skills, engage in youth climate diplomacy and contribute to the youth agenda ahead of COP31.
