After the success of the previous edition of the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 in Switzerland, the Center for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL) is returning with the second edition of its flagship Youth Empowerment Forum 2026, scheduled from September 3-6, 2026, in Geneva, Switzerland. The YEF is the largest gathering of youth that brings together young leaders and professionals from around the world to gain valuable skills, knowledge, and networks to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond. The forum features policy dialogues, expert-led workshops, followed by study visits to the United Nations headquarters and a guided tour of the World Trade Organization headquarters.
The forum is inviting applications from students, professionals, entrepreneurs, young leaders, researchers, and community leaders aged 16-46 years old, regardless of their educational or professional background. Applicants must demonstrate interest in global change, Youth Empowerment, Technology and Innovation, Peacebuilding, and the United Nations. There are no country restrictions; citizens of all nationalities worldwide are encouraged to apply, with a particular emphasis on applicants from the Global South. The forum is offering a total of 250 seats, of which 30 are fully funded. Delegates selected for the fully funded category will receive comprehensive support, including airfare, accommodation, meals, full conference access, and more. The online application process is open, and the deadline for submission is July 5th, 2026.
Youth Empowerment Forum 2026 Switzerland: Overview
- Country: Switzerland
- Location: Geneva
- Host Organization: Center for Global Dialogue and Leadership
- Coverage: Fully/Partially/Self Funded
- Event Dates: September 3-6, 2026
- Application Deadline: July 5th, 2026
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Program Structure
YEF 2026 offers 2 pathways for participants, designed to provide practical exposure to the understanding of how the multilateral system operates, and
Track 1: Global Governance & Diplomatic Leadership
The track focuses on global governance, diplomacy, and multilateral cooperation
Track 2: Global Institutions & International Cooperation
Participation Seats
Total Seats:
The YEF 2026 Switzerland is offering a total of 250 seats, further categorized into:
- Fully Funded: 30
- Partially Funded: 40
- Forum Access: 80
- Self Funded: 100
Fully Funded Coverage
The host organization covers all the costs related to the forum for fully funded delegates. The coverage includes:
- Round-trip airfare travel coverage to/from Geneva
- Accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Geneva
- Meals
- Full Conference Access
- Airport transfers
- Official Leadership certification
- Access to Networking opportunities
- Event Merchandise
- Exclusive visits to the United Nations HQ & the World Trade Organization
- The best delegate will have an opportunity to win a $1000 USD grant
Eligiblity Criteria
- Applicants from all countries are invited to apply
- Applicants from all academic and professional backgrounds are eligible
- Whether you are a student, young professional, working in an NGO, Media, health care, public sector, or a social entrepreneur, all are invited to apply
- Demonstrate interest in Global Change, Youth Empowerment, Technology and Innovation, Peacebuilding, and the United Nations
Selection Criteria
The scholarship selection is based on individuals:
- Leadership Potential
- Demonstrated Community Impact
- Motivation
- Professional and academic background
Forum Features
- Panel Discussion
- High Level Workshops
- Networking opportunities
- Visit to the United Nations HQ’s
- Program Component in the World Trade Organization
- Cultural Events
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How to Apply?
Interested applicants need to pay a nominal application fee of $65.99 and complete the application form. The application consists of three simple steps:
- Basic details
- Personal details
- Application fee
Application Deadline: July 5th, 2026
APPLY FOR YEF SWITZERLAND 2026
