EJN Climate Change Media Partnership 2025 Reporting Fellowships for Cape Verdean Journalists at COP30
The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the main international forum for negotiations on climate change. COP30, which will be held in Brazil in 2025, represents a crucial opportunity for Cape Verde, a country highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, to make its voice heard and share its experiences. To ensure that the Cape Verdean perspective is properly represented, the Environmental Journalism Network (EJN) Climate Change Media Partnership (CCMP) is offering reporting grants for Cape Verdean journalists to cover this vital event.
The Importance of News Coverage of COP30 for Cape Verde
Cape Verde, an archipelago with limited resources and an economy dependent on tourism and fishing, faces significant challenges as a result of climate change. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, water scarcity and extreme weather events threaten the livelihoods of communities and the sustainable development of the country. COP30 offers a platform for:
- Emphasise Cape Verde's vulnerability: News coverage can sensitise the international community to the specific challenges facing Cape Verde.
- Promote adaptive solutions: Journalists can present local adaptation and resilience initiatives, inspiring other island nations.
- Demand ambitious commitments: Media pressure can encourage developed countries to fulfil their promises of climate finance and technology transfer.
- Educating the Cape Verdean public: Coverage of COP30 can raise awareness of climate change and encourage individual and collective action.
What are the EJN CCMP Reporting Fellowships?
The EJN CCMP reporting fellowships are a financial and logistical support programme for journalists from developing countries who wish to cover the COP. The aim is to enable journalists to produce high-quality reports that inform the public and influence climate policies. Grants generally include:
- Funding for travel and accommodation: Coverage of travel costs to the COP venue and accommodation during the event.
- Logistical support: Assistance with visas, accreditation and access to relevant information.
- Mentoring and training: Opportunities to learn from experienced journalists and climate experts.
- Networking opportunities: Connecting with other journalists, political decision-makers and representatives of civil society.
Examples of Impactful Reports Funded by EJN
The EJN has a proven track record of supporting impactful reporting on climate change. For example, EJN-supported journalists have produced:
- Documentaries on the impacts of drought on agriculture: Revealing the difficulties faced by farmers and the innovative solutions being implemented.
- Research articles on climate finance: Analysing whether the funds promised by developed countries are actually reaching developing countries.
- Multimedia reports on coastal erosion: Showing the devastating effects of rising sea levels on coastal communities.
How to Apply for the EJN CCMP 2025 Reporting Scholarships
The application process usually involves submitting a detailed proposal that includes:
- A CV: Demonstrating journalistic experience and an interest in climate issues.
- A letter of motivation: Explaining why the candidate is suitable for the scholarship and how they intend to cover COP30.
- A reporting proposal: Describing the topics you want to cover and the formats you want to use.
- Examples of previous work: Demonstrating the ability to produce high-quality reports.
It is essential to read the application guidelines carefully and fulfil all the requirements. EJN generally looks for candidates with a strong commitment to environmental journalism, an in-depth understanding of climate issues and the ability to produce original and impactful reports.
The Potential Impact for Cape Verde
The participation of Cape Verdean journalists in COP30, supported by EJN CCMP grants, can have a significant impact on the country. By amplifying Cape Verde's voice on the international stage, journalists can help ensure that the country's needs and priorities are considered in the climate negotiations. In addition, coverage of COP30 can inspire local action and promote a more sustainable future for Cape Verde.
News coverage can also influence domestic politics, encouraging the government to implement more ambitious climate change mitigation and adaptation policies. By holding political decision-makers accountable, journalists can play a crucial role in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
Conclusion
The EJN Climate Change Media Partnership 2025 reporting fellowships represent a valuable opportunity for Cape Verdean journalists to cover COP30 and give voice to the country's climate change concerns and aspirations. By supporting talented and committed journalists, EJN contributes to more informed and impactful coverage of climate issues, promoting action and accountability at all levels. We encourage all Cape Verdean journalists interested in climate issues to apply for these grants and play a crucial role in building a more sustainable future for Cape Verde and the planet.
Apply for the EJN Climate Change Media Partnership 2025 Reporting Grants to cover COP30! Find out more and apply here.
Application deadline: 15 July 2025.