EJN Reporting Fellowships 2026 for Journalists to Cover BBNJ COP1 in New York City, USA
Overview
The EJN Reporting Fellowships 2026 are offered by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network to support journalists interested in attending and covering the first meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the BBNJ Agreement. The fellowship is part of a three-year program designed to ensure diverse global coverage of the agreement, awarding fellowships to 10 journalists with equal representation from the Global North and Global South for the 2027 event in New York City.
Who can apply
Applicants must be professional journalists from or representing an established media house and reporting from a coastal country. Candidates are required to have previous experience reporting on ocean issues such as marine pollution, blue economy, sustainable fisheries, marine protection, or illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Additional criteria include a good command of the English language, a long-term commitment to journalism, and availability to travel to New York City for the full duration of the conference.
What you get
Selected fellows receive coverage for non-refundable economy-class airfare, accommodation, meals, travel medical insurance, ground transportation, and visa costs. Organizers provide a per diem for daily expenses, facilitate press accreditation, and offer logistical support for the trip.
Requirements
Applicants must submit an up-to-date resume, an indication of the stories they plan to pursue, and a letter of support from an editor, producer, or supervisor confirming that their reports will be published or broadcast in an established media outlet. Freelancers must also provide a letter of support from the intended media outlet. Additionally, applicants must provide recent journalistic work samples focused on ocean issues published within the last 12 months, featuring clear bylines and accompanied by an English synopsis if written in another language.
Key dates
The application deadline is October 27, 2026. The conference takes place from January 11-22, 2027, with an orientation day on January 10, arrival on January 9, and departure on January 23, 2027.