Applications are now open for the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship Program 2026 on Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea. This prestigious, fully funded international fellowship is offered by the Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS) of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs, in partnership with The Nippon Foundation.
Designed to support professionals from developing countries, the fellowship provides comprehensive training and research opportunities in ocean governance, marine science, and international law. The program targets mid-level government officials and professionals working in the field of ocean affairs or the law of the sea.
Overview of the UN-Nippon Foundation Fellowship Program 2026:
● Fellowship Type: Fully funded international fellowship.
● Duration: 9 months (two phases).
● Location: New York, USA (Phase One) & Host Institution worldwide (Phase Two).
● Number of Fellowships Available: 14.
● Application Deadline: 14 September 2025.
● Target Group: Mid-level professionals from developing countries.
● Fields Covered: Ocean affairs, law of the sea, marine sciences, maritime policy, UNCLOS implementation.
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Fellowship Objectives:
The main goal of the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship is to strengthen the capacity of developing States to manage and protect their marine resources. The program provides participants with:
● Advanced training in ocean affairs, the law of the sea, and related disciplines such as marine science.
● Skills to support the implementation of UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).
● Tools to formulate and implement comprehensive national and regional ocean policies.
● Capacity to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Fellows will return to their home countries equipped with the knowledge and expertise to influence national and international ocean policy.
Financial Support and Benefits:
The fellowship is fully funded, with financial assistance covering all necessary expenses, including:
● Monthly stipend.
● Round-trip international travel.
● Medical insurance.
● Housing costs.
● Access to host institution resources.
● Training materials and program-related costs.
This makes the UNNF Fellowship one of the most accessible and comprehensive opportunities for professionals in the field of ocean governance.
Fellowship Structure:
The UN-Nippon Foundation Fellowship is divided into two phases over a period of nine months:
1. Phase One: Training Phase at the United Nations (3 Months)
● Location: United Nations Headquarters, New York.
● Duration: Mid-March to June 2026.
Fellows receive in-depth training and hands-on experience at DOALOS, working directly on legal and policy issues related to ocean affairs.
2. Phase Two: Advanced Research at a Host Institution (6 Months)
● Location: Academic institution selected based on Fellow’s research focus.
● Duration: July to December 2026.
Fellows conduct independent research under academic supervision in their chosen area, contributing to knowledge that supports national and global ocean governance.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the 2026 UN-Nippon Foundation Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
● Age Range: 25 to 45 years old.
● Nationality: Must be a national of a developing country.
● Educational Qualification: At least a first-level university degree or equivalent.
● Professional Experience: Mid-level government official or professional directly involved in ocean affairs and/or the law of the sea.
● Research Skills: Demonstrated ability to undertake advanced academic research.
Field of Work examples include:
1. UNCLOS implementation.
2. SDG 14 and the 2030 Agenda.
3. Maritime zone establishment.
4. Marine environment protection.
5. Coastal and marine resource management.
6. Maritime transport and security.
7. Marine scientific research.
This program particularly encourages female candidates and ensures geographic diversity among its participants. Reasonable accommodations can be made for applicants with disabilities upon request.
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Application Tips:
To increase your chances of success:
● Answer all questions in the application thoroughly.
● Pay special attention to Sections 18, 19, and 20 of the Personal History Form.
● If needed, attach one additional page for extended responses.
● Demonstrate strong alignment between your professional background and the fellowship objectives.
● Present a clear and relevant research topic related to UNCLOS, marine governance, or sustainable development.
● Obtain a well-prepared recommendation from your government agency or professional institution.
Why the UN-Nippon Foundation Fellowship Matters?
Since its inception in 2004, the UN-Nippon Fellowship Program has trained over 300 professionals from developing countries. These fellows have gone on to lead national maritime policy, engage in international negotiations, and contribute to sustainable ocean development. By empowering mid-career professionals, the program plays a vital role in advancing global ocean governance, ensuring that developing nations have a strong voice in implementing UNCLOS and shaping future marine policy.
Application Process for the UN-Nippon Fellowship 2026:
Candidates must submit a complete application package before 14 September 2025. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Access the Official Application Portal.
Step 2: Download and Complete Application Documents.
The application package consists of the following:
● Personal History and Proposed Research Topic Form.
● Must be completed electronically.
● Use sentence case and avoid ALL CAPS.
● Include either a typed or handwritten signature.
● Nomination and Recommendation Form.
● Signed by an official from your nominating organization or government agency.
● Copy of Passport Biodata Page.
● Online Form.
Step 3: Submit Your Application:
Once all documents are completed and signed ensure all documents are in PDF or Word format and sent before 14 September 2025. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
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Applications Timeline:
|
Date |
Milestone |
|
Now – 14 September 2025 |
Application Period |
|
December 2025 |
Fellowship Award Notifications |
|
March 2026 |
Fellowship Begins in New York |
|
June 2026 |
Phase One Concludes |
|
July – December 2026 |
Research Phase at Host Institution |
Successful candidates will be notified individually. A list of awardees and reserve candidates will also be published on the official fellowship website in December 2025.
Conclusion:
The United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 is more than a professional development opportunity it's a life-changing experience. For those working in marine policy, ocean law, or environmental governance, this fellowship offers the knowledge, networks, and tools to drive real change. If you’re a qualified professional from a developing country with a passion for the ocean and international law, don’t miss this chance to become a leader in your field. Apply by 14 September 2025 and take your career and your country's maritime future to the next level. So to apply and know more visit United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2026 official link here.