Applications are now open for the COP31 Simulation Programme organized by the British University in Egypt and UNDP Egypt for youth from around the world

Ednah Carrick May 30, 2026

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Closing Date: 13 June 2026

Applications are now open for the COP31 Simulation Programme organized by the British University in Egypt and UNDP Egypt for youth from around the world

About COP Simulation

The COP Simulation Programme is a youth-led programme organised by The British University in Egypt (BUE) and The United Nations Development Programme Egypt (UNDP). It brings together students and young professionals from around the world to simulate the roles of country delegates and international climate stakeholders, mirroring the dynamics of the United Nations Climate Change Conferences (COPs).

This joint annual initiative is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and The British Embassy in Egypt, with the continued support of H.E. Professor Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Honorary Chair of the COP Simulation Programme.

Over four successful editions, the Programme has evolved into a distinguished fellowship for youth empowerment in climate diplomacy, advancing Egypt’s and the global community’s efforts toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each edition builds on the last empowering young leaders, amplifying youth voices, and strengthening international collaboration. This immersive experience reflects BUE’s sustained commitment to nurturing the next generation of climate leaders, advancing youth-driven policy solutions, and reinforcing its leading role in supporting Egypt and the global community in addressing climate change.

Road to COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye

For the fifth consecutive year, The British University in Egypt and UNDP Egypt are proud to organise the COP31 Simulation Programme, an annual international initiative that brings together young professionals from around the world to simulate the Conference of the Parties (COP).

The Programme is designed to develop students’ skills in climate literacy, diplomacy, negotiation, and policy advocacy, while also enhancing youth capacities in research, evidence-based policy development, leadership, teamwork, and innovation.

It provides hands-on experience in climate action and policymaking, offers exposure to soft diplomacy and engagement on international climate platforms, promotes cross-cultural collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds, and contributes to shaping them as active climate agents and advocates.

Over the past four years, approximately 160 youth participants have joined the Programme annually, representing diverse backgrounds, nationalities, and universities worldwide.

Due to its significant impact, the COP Simulation Programme is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, in collaboration with the British Embassy in Cairo, and is supported by a wide range of national and international institutions.

Each year, the COP Simulation is organised in partnership with a leading academic institution from the country holding the COP Presidency. COP28 Simulation was held in partnership with Zayed University in UAE, COP29 Simulation with ADA University in Azerbaijan, and COP30 Simulation with both Federal University of Pará and Federal University of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. The COP30 Simulation Programme, which continues to grow each year, introduced two innovative research labs: the Debt Alliance and Climate Finance Lab, and the Just Transition Lab. These initiatives produced two final communiqués that were presented at COP30 in Belém.

Participants who will successfully complete the Programme will receive official certificates recognising their excellence in:

Climate diplomacy and advocacy
International negotiation skills
Climate policy research

We are excited to announce that we are now on the road to COP31 in Antalya, and preparations are underway for the COP31 Simulation Programme. Applications are now open!