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. 

ELIGIBILITY:

To be eligible to apply, prospective fellows must:

Be under 35 years old at the time of applying. 

Be citizens of a BWC State Party listed as least developed country, low- or lower/upper middle-income country (Check if your country is in the Development Assistance Committee List of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)

Have an advanced degree in the life sciences or a related discipline from a recognized university or institution. [Candidates with backgrounds in other fields such as social sciences can be exceptionally considered if they have a demonstrated interest in biosecurity, health security and/or disarmament and non-proliferation]

Have a strong command of written and spoken English

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The selection process will be guided by the need to ensure the highest quality of participants while maintaining a gender and regional balance.

All eligible nationalities (low- or middle-income BWC State Party) are welcome to apply. 

The Fellowship is structured in two parts:

An online interactive training programme featuring experts’ presentations, interactive discussions, and networking/mentoring sessions. Seven virtual sessions will introduce participants to the Biological Weapons Convention, science diplomacy, science and technology review in the life science, dual use research of concern, among others. Fellows will need a computer and a good Wi-Fi connection.

A field visit to Geneva during the week of the Working Group on the Strengthening of the Convention including attendance to the BWC official meetings, leadership skills training, expert dialogues, private institutional visits, meetings with diplomats and the organization of public events to stimulate engagement and reflection on global biosecurity and youth engagement.

BENEFIT:

The Fellows’ travel and stay in Geneva will be funded for the duration of the visit in line with UN rules and regulations.

Invitation letters to accompany visa requests to travel to Switzerland will be issued by UNODA to participants upon request.