The UCLG-MEWA Volunteering Program is designed to familiarize young people with the perspectives and practices of local governance, sustainable development, decentralized cooperation, and local governments’ engagements with the global agendas. The Program aims to demonstrate the critical role of local authorities in addressing global challenges through localized solutions. By engaging youth in this dynamic, the Program fosters awareness of how local governments can contribute meaningfully to global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement, the Sendai Framework, and the New Urban Agenda.
This initiative has the aim of enhancing the youth’s understanding of the connection between local action and global priorities while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to advocate for inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities for all. It also provides a platform for young volunteers to obtain knowledge and experience on how municipalities and local authorities engage in global dialogues, advance sustainable development, and also the operation of international and regional organizations.
The Program is designed for undergraduate and graduate students, with the priority on the students who are during the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of their undergraduate studies of related disciplines such as Political Science, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Economics, International Relations, Local Governments etc.. The deadline for the applications is 26 October 2025 with the expected start date of the Program being 11 November 2025. The candidates must submit their application via an online form. It is essential that the volunteers have an at least intermediate level of English proficiency. In case of insufficient application, the applications might be accepted on a rolling basis.
The Program is structured for a duration of 25 Days, which should not exceed 10 weeks for the Program in an on-site, remote or hybrid modality that should be discussed priorly with each candidate during their interviews.
Program Objectives
- To introduce youth to the structures and functions of UCLG-MEWA and the wider UCLG global network.
- To enhance understanding of how local governments align with international frameworks such as the SDGs, Sendai Framework, Paris Agreement, and New Urban Agenda.
- To raise awareness of advocacy and communication strategies through engagement with international days and campaigns on global issues.
- To build practical skills by preparing materials for international events and analyzing SDG progress across countries in the MEWA region.
Program Components
Orientation : Introduction to UCLG-MEWA and the wider UCLG global network and key international frameworks.
SDG Localization, International Days and Advocacy : UCLG Learning course on SDG localization, development of advocacy campaigns for international days.
International Engagement : Familiarization with international event procedures and preparation of related materials (e.g. formal speeches, information notes, invitation letters).
Country Analysis : Research and preparation of local and regional government system profiles for MEWA region countries.