UNESCO Request for Proposal 2026: Research on Youth, Nature and Sustainable Futures in India’s Biosphere Reserves

Overview

UNESCO has issued a formal procurement assignment seeking an institution or firm to conduct an ethnographic study examining the experiences, aspirations, knowledge systems, opportunities, and contributions of Indigenous and local youth. This research takes place under the Man and the Biosphere Programme and covers two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in India. The findings are intended to inform a regional Man and the Biosphere initiative on Youth and Biosphere Reserves in South Asia, as well as contribute to the development of Man and the Biosphere dossiers for new sites in the region.

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to institutions or firms capable of undertaking the research assignment. Individual scholarships and internships do not apply to this procurement process. Interested organizations must submit separate technical and financial proposals in accordance with UNESCO instructions and the full solicitation document, which is identified as RFP A210454041 SCS Youth and Nature for Sustainable Futures.

Requirements

The selected institution or firm must conduct field research across two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in India, which the successful organization will select and provide a clear justification for. The research must be an ethnographic study focusing on Indigenous and local youth living in and around these reserves. Organizations must submit their proposals via email to the designated procurement address, with a copy to the specified recipient. Submissions must adhere to prescribed email, file-format, and reference requirements.

Key dates

The deadline to submit proposals is Thursday, 22 October 2026, at 11:55 p.m. Indian Standard Time.