About the opportunity
The Italy-AOSIS Fellowship Programme is a unique, yearlong opportunity designed for early-career diplomats and policy professionals from Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Supported by the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, the program provides hands-on training and practical experience in international law, policy, and science. Fellows are based at the United Nations in New York, where they build enduring capacity to help their home governments engage effectively in critical international multilateral processes.
Funding and benefits
- One year of professional diplomatic training and education at the United Nations in New York.
- Hands-on experience dealing with international law, environmental policy, and scientific issues.
- Capacity-building support to strengthen representation for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in global negotiations.
- Funding and support provided by the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security.
Who can apply?
- Must be an early-career diplomat or policy professional.
- Must be a national of an Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) member country.
Required documents
- Completed fellowship application form
- Other supporting documents as specified in the official application instructions PDF
When to apply
- Applications close on Friday, November 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
How to apply
- Download the official application form and instructions from the AOSIS fellowship page.
- Prepare all required application materials as detailed in the downloaded instructions.
- Submit the completed application package via email to fellowship[at]aosis.org before the deadline.
Additional information
- The program has trained 69 fellows from 36 Small Island Developing States over its 11-year history.
- General enquiries can be directed to fellowship[at]aosis.org.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Early-career diplomats from SIDS who want to gain direct, practical experience negotiating at the United Nations.
- Professionals interested in environmental policy, climate change, and international maritime law.
- Individuals committed to returning to their home countries to strengthen national diplomatic capacity.
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires a full-year commitment on-site in New York City, which will necessitate relocation.
- Eligibility is strictly limited to citizens of AOSIS member states.
- Specific details regarding the monthly stipend amount and housing allowance are not fully detailed in the public text and should be verified in the application PDF.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is an exceptional match for early-career professionals from small island nations aiming to build a career in international relations, environmental advocacy, or global governance. It offers unparalleled, direct exposure to UN multilateral negotiations, helping participants build a powerful global network and practical skills that will benefit their home governments for years to come.
Our take
Early-career diplomats from eligible AOSIS member states should strongly consider applying to this prestigious program to accelerate their diplomatic careers. It is not suitable for mid-to-late career professionals or those unable to relocate to New York City for a full year.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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