ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026 is a major international gathering organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, bringing together young leaders, policymakers, civil society representatives, and global institutions. The forum creates a powerful platform where youth from across the world can connect directly with governments and UN agencies to exchange ideas, share experiences, and contribute solutions to global development challenges.
The 2026 edition will focus on the theme “Innovate, Unite and Transform: Youth Shaping the Road to 2030.” Discussions will center on how young people can accelerate progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants will explore the role of innovation, collaboration, and youth leadership in tackling key global issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and rapid technological change.
Benefits of ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026
- Travel support for selected participants to attend the forum at UN Headquarters, New York.
- Accommodation assistance for a limited number of youth representatives.
- Funded speaking or presentation opportunities for innovative youth-led projects.
- Networking access with UN officials and global youth leaders without covering full costs.
- Support to showcase projects related to SDGs with partial funding for participation.
Eligibility Criteria for ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026
- Open to youth from all countries who are interested in global development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Young leaders, youth advocates, and representatives of youth-led or youth-focused organizations are encouraged to apply.
- Participants may include members of youth networks, civil society organizations, and grassroots initiatives working on social impact and development issues.
- Applicants should demonstrate involvement or interest in sustainable development, policy discussions, or youth engagement initiatives.
- Youth representatives may be selected through national youth councils, regional youth organizations, or networks affiliated with UN youth groups.
Key Topics and Discussions
- Youth innovation for sustainable development
- Artificial intelligence and digital transformation
- Financing for development and global cooperation
- Climate action and environmental sustainability
- Inclusive economic growth and social development
Activities at the Forum
- High-level plenary sessions
- Panel discussions with policymakers and experts
- Youth-led dialogues and workshops
- Networking sessions with global leaders
- Policy discussions related to the Sustainable Development Goals
Why the ECOSOC Youth Forum Matters?
- For more than a decade, the ECOSOC Youth Forum has served as a key platform for youth engagement in global governance. The event allows young people to present ideas, innovations, and policy recommendations directly to world leaders.
- By connecting youth leaders with international institutions, the forum strengthens global collaboration and ensures that young voices play a central role in shaping the future of sustainable development.
How to Apply for ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026?
- Start by checking your eligibility to participate as a youth delegate or representative from your country or organization.
- Prepare all required documents, including your CV, motivation statement, and any supporting materials.
- Visit the official ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026 application page to access the online submission form.
- Complete the application form carefully, providing accurate personal details and information about your background.
- Upload all necessary documents in the formats requested on the form.
- Review your application thoroughly to ensure everything is correct and complete.
- Submit your application before the stated deadline to be considered for selection.
- After submission, keep an eye on your email for confirmation and updates regarding your application status.
- Selected participants will receive further instructions about travel, accommodation, and participation in the forum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026 is a three-day UN event from 14–16 April in New York. It gathers youth leaders, policymakers, and partners to exchange ideas, showcase solutions, and advance SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11, and 17, emphasizing youth-driven innovation for sustainable development.
What is the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026?
The ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026 is a global gathering of young people at the United Nations in New York from 14–16 April. It focuses on innovative, coordinated actions to advance the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals with a special focus on SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11, and 17.
Who organizes the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026?
The forum is convened by the President of ECOSOC and organized by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs in collaboration with the UN Youth Office, IANYD, MGCY, and ICMYO, with technical input from relevant youth organizations.
This coordination ensures youth leaders worldwide can engage with governments, policymakers, and civil society to advance youth priorities and address global challenges effectively.
Who can attend the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026?
Youth leaders, delegates, policymakers, civil society members, and private sector stakeholders are invited. Participants include young people from around the world, providing a diverse mix to discuss and develop solutions that support the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals.
What is the main theme of the 2026 forum?
The 2026 forum aligns with the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development and focuses on transformative, equitable, innovative, and coordinated actions to implement the 2030 Agenda and SDGs.
When and where will the forum take place?
The ECOSOC Youth Forum 2026 will run from 14 to 16 April 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Sessions will include both in-person and virtual participation to maximize accessibility and engagement for youth worldwide.
How is the forum structured?
The three-day forum features plenary sessions and interactive thematic and regional breakout sessions. These sessions allow in-depth discussions on advancing the 2030 Agenda and implementing youth-focused initiatives in line with global priorities.
What key SDGs are emphasized at the forum?
The 2026 forum emphasizes SDGs 6 (Clean water and sanitation), 7 (Affordable and clean energy), 9 (Industry, innovation and infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable cities and communities), and 17 (Partnerships for the goals).
How can youth contribute to the forum?
Youth can participate in plenary and breakout sessions, share solutions, engage with policymakers, and submit side events. They can also provide input on intergovernmental processes like the UN Water Conference, World Urban Forum, SDG Summit, and HABITAT Assembly.
Are there virtual participation options?
Yes, the forum offers virtual participation for all sessions, including side events. This allows young people who cannot travel to New York to still actively contribute to discussions and share ideas for advancing sustainable development worldwide.
Why is the ECOSOC Youth Forum important?
The forum provides a unique platform for youth to influence global policies, exchange innovative solutions, and engage directly with governments and UN agencies. It strengthens youth participation in implementing the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals.
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