LAYCS Scholarship

Opening doors. Over the course of a year, scholars build the knowledge, confidence and networks needed to participate in UN climate negotiations while remaining rooted in their communities. The programme combines technical learning with care, language justice and political accompaniment because meaningful participation requires much more than attending a conference.

What the Scholarship offers

Capacity Building

A year-long learning journey covering the UNFCCC process, climate negotiations, advocacy, anti-racism and thematic policy areas such as Adaptation and Climate Finance, alongside direct exchanges with negotiators and experts.

Fully Funded Participation

LAYCS covers all costs associated with participation in the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SBs) and the Conference of the Parties (COP). Scholars receive comprehensive preparation before each conference and continuous accompaniment throughout the negotiation process, ensuring they can fully engage in policy discussions, constituency work and strategic meetings.

Community Action

Microgrants support scholars in translating international learning into locally led initiatives, ensuring climate advocacy remains connected to the territories and communities they represent.

Language Justice

Professional interpretation throughout the programme, including during the conferences. English classes and multilingual support remove language as a barrier to participation and leadership.

Care & Wellbeing

Wellbeing is embedded throughout the programme through emotional check-ins, psychological support when needed, childcare support for scholars that are parents and a discrimination awareness protocol that prioritises safety and dignity.