Submit a UNESCO Global Geopark Proposal
The UNESCO Global Geoparks Secretariat coordinates the proposal submissions and is ready to provide advice. If there is a National Geopark Committee or other UNESCO Global Geoparks in your country, they may also be able to assist, as well as regional networks of the UNESCO Global Geoparks.
Last update:14 October 2025
There are regular calls for grants and exchange programmes supported by UNESCO to train and coach the persons involved in Geopark projects and aspiring UNESCO Global Geoparks. Other opportunities to learn more about UNESCO Global Geoparks include International or regional UNESCO Global Geoparks meetings, conferences, workshops, or short courses.
Before any formal application is prepared, any aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark must first submit an expression of interest via the official channel as set out in the Statutes and Operational Guidelines for UNESCO Global Geoparks. The full process is explained in detail below.
Please follow carefully all the instructions provided below. A detailed checklist aims to guide you in the preparation of your application file – be sure you meet the criteria before applying.
Timeline for the submission and evaluation of UNESCO Global Geoparks proposals
Year 1
- 1 July: deadline to send a letter of intent
- 1 October – 30 November: submission of applications
- 1 December: beginning of the verification and checks of the application documents
Year 2
- 30 April: end of desktop evaluations
- 1 May: field evaluation missions begin
- September: assessment and recommendations by the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council
Year 3
- Final decision by the Executive Board of UNESCO during its spring session
