The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship is a vital initiative that empowers professionals from developing states to become leaders in ocean governance. Through advanced training, research opportunities, and international collaboration, the fellowship contributes to sustainable ocean management and the implementation of global environmental agreements.
As the world faces increasing challenges in ocean governance, the fellowship’s role in building capacity, fostering cooperation, and driving policy innovation will remain essential. By adapting to emerging issues and enhancing its impact, the United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship can continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our oceans and ensuring their sustainable use for generations to come.
United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2024
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious program designed to enhance the capacity of government officials and professionals from developing states in ocean affairs and the law of the sea. It aims to assist countries in achieving sustainable development of their oceans and marine resources. This comprehensive overview explores the fellowship’s objectives, structure, application process, benefits, and impact on global ocean governance.
Read: How to Apply UNEP UNV Young Talent Pipeline Programme 2024 (UN Volunteer Professional)
Objectives
The primary objectives of the United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship are:
- Capacity Building: To strengthen the knowledge and skills of mid-level professionals from developing states, enabling them to effectively manage and utilize ocean resources.
- Sustainable Development: To support the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
- Networking and Cooperation: To foster international cooperation and collaboration among participants, promoting a global network of ocean leaders.
Fellowship structure, curriculum and deliverables
The 9-month Fellowship Programme is composed of two consecutive phases which provide Fellows with advanced and customized research and training opportunities in their chose fields:
- Phase One: 3-month Research and Training, which is normally undertaken between March/April and June at DOALOS at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
- Phase Two: 6-month Advanced Academic Research and Study, which is normally undertaken between July and December at one of the prestigious participating Host Institutions and under the guidance of subject matter expert(s) who have recognized in-depth expertise in the Fellows’ chosen field of study.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must be nationals of developing states.
- They should be government officials or professionals working in the field of ocean affairs and the law of the sea.
- Applicants must have a first-level university degree and demonstrate proficiency in English.
The deliverables of the Fellowship Programme are:
- A 100-page written thesis
- A presentation of the research
- An ocean governance matrix
In addition, a number of assignments will be completed in the context of the training curriculum delivered during phase one of the programme.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship offers numerous benefits to participants, including:
Professional Development:
- Fellows receive advanced training in ocean affairs and the law of the sea, enhancing their professional skills and knowledge.
- They gain exposure to international best practices and emerging trends in ocean governance.
Research Opportunities:
- Fellows conduct original research on topics relevant to their home countries, contributing to the body of knowledge in ocean affairs.
- They have access to academic resources, libraries, and mentorship from leading experts in the field.
Networking and Collaboration:
- The fellowship provides opportunities to build a global network of peers and experts in ocean governance.
- Fellows participate in international forums and conferences, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Implementation and Impact:
- The fellowship equips participants with the tools and knowledge to influence national and regional ocean policies.
- Fellows return to their home countries with actionable research findings and recommendations for sustainable ocean management.
Impact on Global Ocean Governance
The United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship has had a significant impact on global ocean governance in several ways:
Capacity Building:
- The fellowship has built a cadre of skilled professionals in developing states who are capable of leading efforts in ocean governance and sustainable development.
- Alumni of the program have assumed key positions in government agencies, research institutions, and international organizations, where they influence policy and decision-making.
Policy Development:
- Fellows’ research has informed the development of national and regional policies on maritime boundaries, marine resource management, and environmental protection.
- The fellowship has contributed to the implementation of international agreements such as UNCLOS and the Sustainable Development Goal
International Cooperation:
- The fellowship has fostered a spirit of international cooperation and collaboration among participants, leading to joint initiatives and projects.
- It has strengthened partnerships between developing states and international organizations, enhancing collective efforts to address global ocean challenges.
Knowledge Dissemination:
- Fellows have disseminated their research findings through publications, presentations, and workshops, contributing to the global body of knowledge on ocean affairs.
- The fellowship has raised awareness about the importance of sustainable ocean governance and the need for international cooperation.
How to Apply United Nations – Nippon Foundation Fellowship 2024
Candidates wishing to be considered for a Fellowship award must ensure that they meet all the following criteria:
- You must be between the ages of 25 and 40;
- You must have successfully completed a first university degree, and demonstrate a capacity to undertake independent advanced academic research and study;
- You must be a mid-level professional from a national government organ of a developing State, or another governmental or non-governmental agency in such a State, which deals directly with ocean affairs issues, and your professional position must allow you to directly assist your nation in the formulation and/or implementation of policy in this area. This includes marine sciences and the science-policy linkage. Your “Nomination and Recommendation Form” should be completed by a Government official or other official who can attest to the nature of your work with respect to the Government’s ocean affairs and law of the sea related activities, and indicate how an Award would directly contribute to these activities;
- Your proposed research and study programme must contribute directly to your nation’s formulation and/or implementation of ocean affairs and law of the sea policies and programmes; and
- You must be free of all non-Fellowship obligations during the entire Fellowship period unless otherwise authorized by the Division.
Satisfaction of the above criteria must be clearly demonstrated by the candidate through the application forms and confirmed by a nominating authority. Women candidates are strongly invited to apply, with a view to achieve gender balance in the selection process.
