Youth Global Forum 2026 is an international platform designed to unite young leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across the globe. This prestigious event provides a unique opportunity for youth to exchange ideas, tackle pressing global issues, and shape policies that impact future generations. With a strong focus on leadership, innovation, and sustainability, the forum empowers participants to address challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, and the evolving role of technology in society.
Organized by the Centre for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL), the Youth Global Forum 2026 aligns with major European Union youth initiatives, including the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027, the EU Youth Dialogue, and the European Youth Work Agenda. Through workshops, debates, and collaborative projects, the forum continues its mission of equipping young people with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to drive meaningful change. This is more than just a gathering—it is a movement to amplify youth voices on the global stage.
Forum Benefits
There are total 150 seats in different categories.
Fully Funded (30 seats)
- Round-trip Airfare
- 4-Star Shared Accommodation (3 nights)
- Visa Support (Invitation & Guidance)
- Lunch During Forum Days
- Full Forum Access & Session Participation
- Study Visits (Parliament, Hubs etc.)
- Top-Quality Forum Merchandise
- Daily Breakfast
- Certificate of Participation
- Cultural Exchange Night & Networking
Partially Funded (40 seats)
- 4-Star Shared Accommodation (3 nights)
- Visa Support (Invitation & Guidance)
- Lunch During Forum Days
- Full Forum Access & Session Participation
- Study Visits (Parliament, Hubs etc.)
- Top-Quality Forum Merchandise
- Daily Breakfast
- Certificate of Participation
- Cultural Exchange Night & Networking
Forum Admission (30 seats)
- Visa Support (Invitation & Guidance)
- Lunch During Forum Days
- Full Forum Access & Session Participation
- Study Visits (Parliament, Hubs etc.)
- Top-Quality Forum Merchandise
- Daily Breakfast
- Certificate of Participation
- Cultural Exchange Night & Networking
Self Funded (50 seats)
- 4-Star Shared Accommodation (3 nights)
- Visa Support (Invitation & Guidance)
- Lunch During Forum Days
- Full Forum Access & Session Participation
- Study Visits (Parliament, Hubs etc.)
- Top-Quality Forum Merchandise
- Daily Breakfast
- Certificate of Participation
- Cultural Exchange Night & Networking
Eligibility
The Youth Global Forum is welcoming young leaders aged 16–45 from every part of the world, including:
- Youth advocates and civil society actors
- Social entrepreneurs and tech innovators
- Environmental activists and sustainability leaders
- Policy students, researchers, and educators
- Creatives and storytellers shaping global narratives
Why Join?
- Connect with youth from over 100+ countries
- Co-create solutions to the world’s biggest challenges
- Experience political and cultural life in Madrid
- Build skills, networks, and global visibility
- Be part of a movement that puts youth at the center of global change
Forum Themes
“Leading the Future: Dialogue, Action, and Impact in an Age of Uncertainty”
- Artificial Intelligence disruption
- Climate degradation and sustainability threats
- Economic instability and youth unemployment
- Erosion of democratic values and participation
- Mental health and wellbeing crises
- Peacebuilding and human rights protection
Key Activities
- Youth-led plenary sessions and policy roundtables
- Skill-building workshops and solution labs
- Mock global policy simulation
- Guided visits to the Spanish Parliament, local policy institutions, and innovation spaces
- Cultural evenings and networking events
- Grant competition for community projects
Frequently Askded Questions (FAQs)
What is Youth Global Forum 2026?
This is an international youth forum bringing together changemakers from across the globe for workshops, policy dialogues, cultural exchange, and visits to world-renowned institutions.
Who can apply for YGF 2026?
Anyone aged 16–46 from any country, with a passion for making a positive impact, is welcome to apply.
What are the participation categories of Youth Global Forum 2026?
We have Fully Funded, Partially Funded, and Guaranteed Participation categories (Forum Admission & Self-Funded). Each comes with its own set of benefits.
How does the Fully Funded category work?
If selected, your airfare, local travel, accommodation, meals, and visa support letter are all covered. It’s a competitive, merit-based selection.
How does the Partially Funded category work?
If selected, you’ll get local travel, accommodation, meals, and visa support letter — but airfare is not included. Selection is also competitive and merit-based.
Can I apply for both Fully Funded and Partially Funded categories?
Yes! If you apply for both, you will be independently assessed for each but can only be selected for one. This increases your chances — if you’re not selected for Fully Funded, you’ll still be considered for Partially Funded.
What is the Visa Invitation Letter category?
This is for those who only need a visa support letter to attend. The cost you pay will be fully adjusted if you later choose to upgrade to a Guaranteed Participation category.
What is the Guaranteed Participation category?
These are paid categories that guarantee your spot — Forum Admission (conference access + meals + visa support) and Self-Funded (all-inclusive except airfare).
How competitive is the selection for funded seats?
Highly competitive. Funded categories are awarded based on merit, leadership potential, and alignment with the forum’s goals.
Do I need previous international experience to apply?
No. We welcome both first-time travelers and experienced participants.
What’s included in the program?
Workshops, policy dialogues, cultural activities, networking sessions, and visits to international organizations.
Do I need a visa to attend?
This depends on your nationality. We provide an official visa invitation letter to selected participants in all categories.
Can I join if I’m already in the host country?
Yes. You can apply in any category that fits your situation — airfare benefits will simply not be used if you’re already there.
How do I apply?
Complete the online application form, upload your documents, and submit before the deadline.
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