The First European Forum on Environmental Human Rights Defenders (EHRDs) invites individuals and organizations committed to the promotion, protection, and respect of environmental and human rights across Europe to express their interest in participation. This landmark Forum represents a significant opportunity for Environmental Human Rights Defenders, civil society organizations, institutions, policymakers, and advocates to engage in meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange on pressing environmental and human rights challenges affecting the European region. The Forum will be held on 3–4 June 2026 at the headquarters of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. The event is jointly organized by the Council of Europe, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Environmental Defenders under the Aarhus Convention. Additional collaboration is provided by the UNECE Aarhus Convention Secretariat, several Human Rights Council Special Procedure mandate holders, and a range of civil society organizations actively working throughout Europe. Purpose of the Forum The Forum aims to strengthen networks among Environmental Human Rights Defenders and supporting organizations while fostering regional cooperation and advocacy. Participants will have the opportunity to: Share experiences and best practices Discuss emerging environmental and human rights issues Explore strategies for protection and advocacy Build partnerships across sectors and countries Contribute to discussions on policy and accountability mechanisms The gathering is expected to attract a diverse range of participants from across the Council of Europe member states, including grassroots defenders, activists, indigenous representatives, youth leaders, academics, legal experts, international organizations, and civil society actors. Event Format and Languages The Forum will be conducted exclusively as an in-person event. Online participation or virtual attendance options will not be available. Participants are therefore encouraged to prepare for travel and related logistical arrangements should their participation be approved. The working languages of the Forum will be: English French Interpretation services will be provided in both languages to ensure inclusive participation and accessibility for attendees. Registration and Selection Process Submitting an Expression of Interest does not automatically guarantee participation in the Forum. All applications will undergo a comprehensive review and selection process conducted by the organizers. Applicants whose participation is approved will receive an official registration confirmation letter. The review process will take place on a rolling basis to allow selected participants sufficient time to make necessary arrangements, including: Visa applications Travel planning Accommodation bookings Administrative preparations Interested individuals are therefore strongly encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible. Funding and Financial Support Due to limited available resources, the organizers will only be able to provide financial support to a select number of Environmental Human Rights Defenders. Funding decisions will be based on several factors, including: Resource availability Geographic diversity Gender balance Inclusion and representation criteria Nature of environmental and human rights work Applicants who meet the general participation criteria but are not selected for financial support may still receive an invitation to attend the Forum through self-funded participation. The organizers anticipate that the majority of participants will need to finance their own attendance. Institutions, donor organizations, and networks that support Environmental Human Rights Defenders are encouraged to assist participants financially where possible. Safety, Security, and Confidentiality The safety and security of applicants and participants remain a priority for the organizers. The registration form is encrypted and protected to help prevent unauthorized access and ensure confidentiality of submitted information. Participants are encouraged to provide accurate and complete information throughout the registration process to facilitate proper review and communication. Information Requested in the Registration Form Applicants will be required to provide key personal and professional information, including but not limited to: First name Last name Email address Age Nationality Country of residence City or town of residence Countries covered through advocacy or organizational work Organization name (if applicable) Position title (if applicable) Applicants will also be asked to indicate whether they identify as Environmental Human Rights Defenders and to specify the nature of their involvement or affiliation. Additional information may include: Partnerships with NGOs or international institutions Contact details of supporting organizations Attendance capacity for non-EHRD participants Group affiliations and representation categories Why Participation Matters Environmental Human Rights Defenders continue to play a critical role in protecting ecosystems, promoting sustainability, and safeguarding fundamental freedoms. Across Europe and beyond, defenders face increasing environmental, political, legal, and social challenges that require stronger solidarity, institutional support, and coordinated action. The First European Forum on Environmental Human Rights Defenders seeks to create a collaborative and inclusive platform where participants can strengthen collective efforts and advance environmental justice across the region. Individuals and organizations engaged in environmental protection, climate justice, indigenous rights, land defense, biodiversity preservation, public participation, and human rights advocacy are encouraged to express their interest and become part of this important initiative. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.