Road to COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye
For the fifth consecutive year, The British University in Egypt and UNDP Egypt are proud to organise the COP Simulation Programme, an annual international initiative that brings together students 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 successfully complete the Programme 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. Stay tuned for our announcement for the Call for Applications!
