Are you a high-level policymaker from a developing country looking to shape the future of ocean governance? The UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025 offers a unique, fully funded opportunity for senior government officials to gain world-class training in sustainable marine policy. Held in Portugal and backed by UN DESA and the Government of Portugal, this elite fellowship brings together international ocean leaders for an intensive five-day learning experience that supports SDG 14: Life Below Water.
About UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025
The UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship is a flagship capacity-building program focused on sustainable ocean governance and the blue economy. Organized by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) in collaboration with the Government of Portugal, the fellowship is designed to equip senior decision-makers from developing countries, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), with the skills to lead national marine policies and strategies.
Set for 20–24 October 2025 in Portugal, this fully funded program covers all travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs, offering a rare chance to collaborate with global experts and marine policy leaders.
UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025 Summary
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country: | Portugal |
| Host Institution: | United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) in collaboration with Government of Portugal |
| Level of Study: | Fellowship (Senior Policy Training) |
| Eligible Degrees / Fields: | Ocean Governance, Marine Affairs, Environmental Policy, Blue Economy |
| Scholarship Coverage: | Fully Funded (Travel, Accommodation, Per Diem) |
| IELTS Requirement: | Not required, but English fluency is essential |
| Eligible Regions / Nationalities: | Developing countries, SIDS, LDCs |
| Application Deadline: | July 15, 2025 |
| Destination Country: | Portugal |
| Category: | Fully Funded, Government Fellowship |
Benefits of the UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship
Fellows selected for this program receive extensive financial and professional support:
- Full travel coverage, including international flights and local transport
- Accommodation and daily expenses fully covered for the program duration
- Access to world-class training by global experts in ocean governance, marine law, and sustainable development
- Engagement with real-world policy simulations and case studies
- Integration into the UN Ocean Fellows Network
- Long-term benefits through improved policy influence and international cooperation
Eligibility Criteria for UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025
To qualify for this fully funded international fellowship, candidates must:
- Be a senior official or policymaker currently employed in national maritime, ocean, or environmental governance
- Serve in roles such as Head/Deputy Head of Ocean Agencies, Ambassadors, or equivalent positions
- Be from a developing country, with priority for SIDS and LDCs
- Have a proven track record in ocean policy and governance
- Commit to continuing their work in the public service medium-to-long term
- Be fluent in English (program language)
Encouraged Groups:
- Women in ocean governance
- Indigenous leaders with roles in coastal and marine policy
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Required Documents for UN-Portugal Fellowship Application
All nominations must include the following documents:
- Note Verbale from the Permanent Mission to the United Nations (official communication)
- Nomination Form for each candidate, completed and endorsed
- Clearly state candidate ranking if more than one nominee is submitted
Submission Method:
Email to: desa-ocean-fellowships@un.org, with copy to oceanfellowship@mne.pt
Application Timeline for the Ocean Fellowship
- Fellowship Dates: 20–24 October 2025
- Application Opens: Already open
- Application Deadline: July 15, 2025 (no extensions allowed)
- Selection Results: Communicated to selected candidates in August 2025
Fellowship attendance is mandatory for all sessions.
How to Apply for the UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025
This is a nomination-based fellowship. Individual applications are not accepted.
Steps to Apply
- National governments select and prioritize eligible candidates.
- Prepare an official Note Verbale listing nominees.
- Complete a separate Nomination Form for each candidate.
- Submit both to the email addresses listed above by 15 July 2025.
Tips for Successful Nomination
- Ensure your country ranks candidates if submitting more than one
- Provide a strong policy background for each nominee
- Emphasize English fluency and ongoing national roles
FAQs about the UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025
Who is eligible to apply?
Only high-ranking officials in maritime or ocean policy from developing countries, particularly SIDS and LDCs.
Do I need to submit the application myself?
No, nominations must be submitted by the candidate’s Permanent Mission to the UN.
Is English proficiency mandatory?
Yes. All sessions are conducted in English.
Are there any academic requirements?
No specific academic degree is required, but candidates must have relevant policy-level experience.
Can more than one person from a country apply?
Yes, but nominations must be ranked by priority.
Final Thoughts on the UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025
The UN-Portugal Ocean Fellowship 2025 is an exclusive opportunity to become a leading voice in sustainable ocean policy. With fully funded participation, a global professional network, and actionable insights into marine governance, this program is a game-changer for officials committed to advancing the ocean sustainability agenda.
📌Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Portugal.
Application Deadline: 15th July 2025
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