Are you a government official or policymaker working in the field of ocean affairs, marine science, or maritime policy? Here is a golden opportunity to gain global exposure, expert training, and hands-on experience in sustainable ocean governance — all fully funded! The UN Ocean Fellowship 2025, hosted in Lisbon, Portugal, is calling for applications from eligible professionals across developing countries and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
This prestigious 5-day fellowship offers a fully covered experience, including airfare, accommodation, meals, and more, for a select group of senior officials passionate about shaping the future of our oceans. If you’re working in ocean policy, blue economy, or marine protection, this opportunity is tailor-made for you.
About the UN Ocean Fellowship
Organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), in partnership with the Government of Portugal and the Oceano Azul Foundation, this fellowship is part of a long-term commitment to building the capacity of ocean leaders from around the world.
The programme, part of the broader UN Ocean Conference initiatives, is focused on enhancing the knowledge, skills, and networks of ocean policymakers from SIDS and developing nations — all while advancing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water.
Fellowship Details
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Location: Lisbon, Portugal
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Dates: October 20–24, 2025
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Duration: 5 full days of intensive training
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Participants: 20–25 selected fellows per year
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Target Regions: Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
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Funding: Fully funded (travel, accommodation, meals, allowance)
What You Will Learn
The fellowship includes hands-on workshops, policy simulations, expert-led lectures, and high-level discussions on the most pressing ocean issues. Topics covered include:
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Sustainable ocean governance frameworks
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Marine conservation and biodiversity
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Blue economy development strategies
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Ocean and maritime law
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Continental shelf and marine spatial planning
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Global diplomacy and international cooperation
You’ll also gain exposure to real-world policy challenges and practical strategies used by top experts and international organizations.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this fellowship, you must meet the following criteria:
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✅ Be a mid- to senior-level government official actively involved in ocean governance, marine resource management, or related policy areas.
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✅ Be a citizen of a developing country or a Small Island Developing State (SIDS).
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✅ Possess at least a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent).
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✅ Be fluent in English, the language of instruction.
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✅ Be available for the entire duration of the fellowship and not have conflicting obligations.
Applicants with strong track records in national or regional marine policy work will be given priority.
What the Fellowship Covers
One of the most attractive aspects of the UN Ocean Fellowship is that everything is fully funded, including:
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✈️ Round-trip airfare from your home country to Lisbon, Portugal
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Accommodation throughout the 5-day fellowship
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️ Daily meals and subsistence allowance
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Local transportation
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Access to all training sessions, events, and materials
This ensures that participants can focus entirely on learning, networking, and policy development — without financial stress.
Benefits of the Fellowship
This is not just a training programme — it’s a career-transforming experience. Fellows will benefit from:
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Deep insights into marine and environmental policy
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Practical skills in managing ocean challenges
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High-level engagement with UN bodies, global policymakers, and NGOs
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Direct contribution to SDG 14 and national action plans
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Strengthened regional and international networks
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A certificate of participation from UN DESA
This experience can open doors to future international roles, policy forums, and leadership positions.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is expected to be around July 15, 2025. However, candidates are strongly encouraged to begin preparations early, especially as most applicants will need to be nominated by their government.
How to Apply
While the official application portal is not yet open, here’s what you can begin preparing:
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Obtain a nomination from your relevant ministry or government department.
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Prepare an updated CV/resume highlighting your experience in ocean-related fields.
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Collect academic transcripts and proof of your degree(s).
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Write a statement of interest explaining how the fellowship will benefit your work.
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Monitor the UN DESA and DOALOS websites for the official application link.
Once the application opens, ensure you submit all required documents before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
The UN Ocean Fellowship 2025 in Portugal is more than just a short course — it’s a launchpad for emerging ocean leaders committed to making a lasting impact. If you’re a government official in a developing nation or SIDS and you care deeply about marine sustainability, maritime law, or coastal economies, this fellowship can boost your skills, your network, and your global influence.
Take this opportunity seriously, start preparing now, and position yourself for one of the most prestigious international fellowships in the ocean space.
Stay Updated
For updates on when the application goes live, visit:
UN DESA – Ocean Fellowship Page
Oceano Azul Foundation
Or follow our site– we’ll let you know as soon as the application link becomes active!