The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the British University in Egypt (BUE) have joined forces to inspire and empower youth to take action against climate change. 

Through our annual COP Simulation series, students from around the world step into the shoes of negotiators, experiencing the challenges and complexities of international climate diplomacy firsthand. 

Experience Climate Negotiations Like Never Before

The COP Simulation is a youth-led initiative that mirrors the dynamics of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP). Participants represent nations and organizations, engaging in realistic negotiations to tackle pressing global challenges. This immersive program hones essential skills in:

• Diplomacy and consensus-building
• Policy-making and problem-solving
• Effective communication across cultural and political divides

A Global Movement Since 2022

Since its inception, the COP Simulation series has brought together hundreds of students from dozens of countries. It’s more than a simulation—it's a platform for meaningful action, fostering a generation of informed and driven climate advocates who contribute to shaping a sustainable future.

A Strong Partnership for Climate Action: UNDP & BUE

In February 2022, UNDP and BUE formalized their shared vision for climate action through a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement, witnessed by H.E. Gareth Bayley, British Ambassador to Egypt, underscores a commitment to empowering youth and advancing innovative solutions for sustainable development. During the ceremony, UNDP Egypt Resident Representative Alessandro Fracassetti and BUE President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohamed Loutfi highlighted the partnership’s role in strengthening Egypt's leadership in global climate sustainability. Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)m the MoU facilitates action-oriented research and hands-on educational initiatives.

Global Collaboration for Climate Leadership

The annual COP Simulation series is a cornerstone of the UNDP and BUE partnership, showcasing shared commitment to empowering youth in climate action. Held under the auspices of the COP Presidency, and supported by the Egyptian Ministries of Higher Education and Youth and Sports, the British Embassy in Egypt, and the UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for Egypt, the series brings together students from all over the world for an unparallelled educational experience. 

Find out more

Each year, we partner with a leading academic institution from the COP host country, fostering global collaboration and enriching the program's reach and impact.

COP27 Simulation | COP28 Simulation | COP29 Simulation