Applications are now open for countries and organizations interested in hosting the 13th International Conference on UNESCO Global Geoparks in 2029, one of the leading global events in geoscience, sustainable tourism, and environmental policy. Organized by UNESCO in collaboration with the Global Geoparks Network (GGN), the conference gathers international experts, policymakers, tourism leaders, and geopark managers from around the world.
The hosting opportunity is open to countries with existing UNESCO Global Geoparks and institutions capable of organizing a large-scale international conference for 800 to 1,000 participants. Successful host organizations will gain international recognition, strengthen institutional partnerships, and enhance their leadership role in sustainable development and geo-tourism.
The final host country for the 2029 conference will be selected in 2027 during the 12th UNESCO Global Geoparks Conference in Portugal, giving shortlisted applicants enough time to prepare.
Program Type
This is not a scholarship or fellowship, but an international hosting opportunity for governments, geopark authorities, universities, and institutions connected to UNESCO Global Geoparks.
It provides selected hosts the chance to organize a prestigious global conference and showcase their country’s achievements in:
- Geoscience
- Sustainable tourism
- Environmental conservation
- Community development
- Geoheritage management
Eligible Applicants
Applications are open to:
- National governments
- UNESCO Global Geopark authorities
- Universities and research institutions
- Tourism boards
- Public institutions working with geoparks
Applicants must be based in a country that already has at least one UNESCO Global Geopark.
Benefits of Hosting the Conference
Hosting the UNESCO Global Geoparks Conference 2029 offers several important benefits:
- Global visibility for the host country and institutions
- Opportunity to welcome 800–1,000 international delegates
- Stronger institutional and international partnerships
- Enhanced reputation in sustainable tourism and environmental policy
- Increased research collaboration opportunities
- Potential growth in international tourism
- Leadership recognition in the global geopark network
This conference provides a platform to position the host country as a leader in sustainable development and geoheritage management.
Hosting Requirements
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal demonstrating their ability to host the conference successfully. The hosting plan should include:
- A capable organizing team including:
- Geoscientists
- Communication specialists
- Administrative staff
- A clear financial plan
- Sponsorship and funding strategies
- Infrastructure for large-scale meetings
- Accommodation arrangements for participants
- Travel and accommodation support for UNESCO and GGN officials
- Capacity to manage assemblies, advisory meetings, and workshops
Hosts are responsible for arranging the event budget through public or private funding sources.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be reviewed based on:
- Institutional readiness
- Financial feasibility
- Infrastructure capacity
- Previous experience hosting international events
- Strength of partnerships
- Strategic importance of the host geopark or country
Because of the scale and visibility of the conference, competition is expected to be high, and only well-prepared bids are likely to succeed.
Application Process
Interested organizations should follow these steps:
- Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your country has an officially recognized UNESCO Global Geopark. - Develop a Hosting Proposal
Prepare a detailed conference hosting plan, including logistics, financial planning, partnerships, and organizational capacity. - Coordinate with National Authorities
Work with government agencies, tourism boards, and institutional partners to strengthen the bid. - Submit the Application
Send the official hosting proposal to UNESCO and the Global Geoparks Network before the deadline. - Proposal Review and Final Selection
Shortlisted applicants may receive feedback before the final selection takes place in 2027.
Application Deadline
The last date to submit hosting applications for the UNESCO Global Geoparks Conference 2029 is 31 May 2026.
