Tufts Delegation for COP Biodiversity Conference
Starting in fall 2026, Tufts will send a delegation to the United Nations Biodiversity Conference. Through their status as observers, Tufts delegates gain important insight into the discussions that frame the global conservation around protecting biodiversity, using natural resources sustainably, and sharing benefits from nature fairly.
We invite all Tufts students to apply.
Please note that funding is not included in this opportunity. Each delegate must secure their own funds.
This opportunity is facilitated by the Fletcher School, the Center for International Environment and Resource Policy (CIERP), and the Office of the Vice Provost for Education.
- Students will attend the conference with the Brandeis University delegation. Most likely, students would depart Boston on October 17 and return on October 22/23.
- Students will book and pay for their own travel arrangements (visa, flight, accommodations, meals, etc.).
- Students will stay in the accommodations organized by Brandeis University.
- Delegates will attend planning meetings and health and safety pre-departure briefings.
- Delegates will assist with the Bat Conservation International (BCI) booth at the conference (optional but encouraged).
COP31 will take place October 2026 in Yerevan, Armenia. Students will attend the conference with the Brandeis University delegation. Most likely, students would depart Boston on October 17 and return on October 22/23.
The Conference of the Parties (COP) is held annually, with the Presidency rotating between the five recognized UN regions.
For 2026, the timeline is very short because Tufts was just accepted to send students to the conference. The timeline will vary each year, depending on the conference dates.
- September 7 (9:00 am): Application is due. Selection Committee will review applications and make final selections.
- September 11: Selected delegates will be notified by this date.
- September 15: Final deadline for Tufts to nominate students to participate.
- Late September: Pre-Departure Health & Safety Meeting
Please email Christine Hollenhorst (christine.hollenhorst@tufts.edu) with the following.
Attachment 1: A clear scan of your current passport.
Attachment 2: Please create a PDF with the following information:
- Personal Details
- Name
- Mobile Number
- Tufts School Affiliation
- Application Questions
- Which elements of the conference and/or negotiations interest you most?
- How does attending COP contribute to your academic interests (research, courses, etc.) and how would it be related to your professional or academic background?
- How do you plan to fund your participation in the conference?