Apply for the 2025 Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship

The global norm against biological weapons cannot be maintained without the inclusion of youth voices in the multilateral discussions taking place in the framework of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). Youth perspectives are key to create innovative solutions and generate long-term engagement. There are benefits to including the perspectives of young people from developing countries, where over 90% of the world’s youth reside. 

Organized by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs in Geneva, in partnership with key international actors that empower youth in science diplomacy and global biosecurity, the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship provides a unique learning and networking experience in the framework of the Biological Weapons Convention. 

Launched in 2019 as a Biosecurity Diplomacy Workshop, the Youth for Biosecurity Initiative organized its first fellowship in 2023. For the third edition, the fellowship will provide the opportunity for 20 competitively selected young scientists from the Global South to join an online interactive training programme prior to a field visit during the meeting of the BWC Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention in Geneva. 

The Fellowship aims at allowing young biosecurity leaders from the Global South to:

• Learn & lead -> deepen your expertise in biosecurity and disarmament to build leadership skills,
• Think & act -> engage in discussions with senior experts and make your voice heard in the margins of multilateral disarmament meetings,
• Engage with community -> connect with young experts in an international youth network and enjoy a space for dialogue between emerging scientists and BWC practitioners.  

Learn more about the Youth for Biosecurity Initiative

Do you have specific questions? Read our FAQs below

Check out below if you can be a candidate and APPLY before Monday 7 April 2025: 

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