Ongoing Equal access to climate decision-making for young people with disabilities
Transforming Climate Youth Negotiators Programme (CYNP) into an inclusive and accessible space.
About the project
The project is a joint initiative led by European Disability Forum (EDF) and Youth Negotiators Academy (YNA) to strengthen the meaningful participation of young persons with disabilities in climate diplomacy and international climate negotiations.
The project aims to transform YNA Climate Youth Negotiators Programme (CYNP) into an inclusive and accessible space. Through accessibility assessments, tailored training, mentorship, advocacy, and the development of practical tools, the initiative seeks to ensure that disability inclusion becomes embedded in youth climate diplomacy pathways beyond a single climate conference cycle.
The project contributes to the implementation of the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), particularly participation, accessibility, and non-discrimination, while advancing disability-inclusive climate action, the work of the UN United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UN FCCC) and the European Union (EU).
Expected impact
The project seeks to contribute to a climate diplomacy ecosystem where young persons with disabilities can participate equally, meaningfully, and safely.
Expected outcomes include:
- Increased accessibility of youth climate diplomacy programmes
- Strengthened disability inclusion capacities among YNA trainers and programme staff
- Greater participation of young climate leaders with disabilities in international climate processes
- Practical tools and models that can be replicated by other youth diplomacy and leadership programmes
- Stronger advocacy for inclusive climate governance and representation
Timeframe
1 June 2026 – 31 May 2027 (12 months)
Funding
- European Disability Forum: USD 100,000
- Youth Negotiators Academy: USD 100,000
Length
- 1st June 2026 to 31st May 2027 (12 months)
Funder
This project is funded by the Disability Rights Fund.
Partners
- European Disability Forum
- Youth Negotiators Academy
