The Youth Global Forum 2026 (YGF 2026) is a globally recognized youth leadership event set to take place in Madrid, Spain from January 15 to 18, 2026. Organized by the Centre for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL), this four-day forum brings together young changemakers, advocates, innovators, and future leaders from around the world to engage in meaningful dialogue, collaborative problem-solving, and cultural exchange.
What Is the Youth Global Forum?
The Youth Global Forum is an international event designed to elevate the voices of youth and empower them to shape policies, projects, and solutions for global challenges. By blending policy discussions, interactive workshops, networking sessions, and simulation exercises, the forum provides a platform for young people to influence decision-making processes and create lasting change.
The forum operates within frameworks such as the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027, EU Youth Dialogue, and the European Youth Work Agenda, demonstrating its alignment with major youth empowerment initiatives.
Key Themes of the Forum
Under the central theme “Leading the Future: Dialogue, Action, and Impact in an Age of Uncertainty,” the Youth Global Forum focuses on critical global topics:
- Artificial Intelligence and Digital Disruption
- Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
- Economic Instability and Youth Unemployment
- Democratic Engagement and Civic Participation
- Mental Health and Well-Being
- Peacebuilding and Human Rights Protection
These themes reflect current global priorities and offer participants the opportunity to contribute ideas and strategies for real-world impact.
What to Expect at the Forum
1. Youth-Led Panels and Policy Discussions
Participants take part in plenary sessions and roundtables where they voice their perspectives, explore policy options, and debate solutions with peers and experts.
2. Skills Workshops and Innovation Labs
Interactive workshops strengthen practical skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and project development—critical for youth leaders in any field.
3. Mock Global Policy Simulation
Delegates participate in a simulation that mirrors real international negotiations, enhancing understanding of global governance and diplomacy.
4. Networking and Cultural Exchange
Cultural events, networking evenings, and collaborative sessions promote cross-cultural understanding and help forge international partnerships.
5. Community Project Competitions
Participants can pitch their project ideas in competitions designed to support community initiatives and possibly earn seed funding.
Participation Categories & Benefits
The Youth Global Forum offers four main ways to attend, ensuring access for candidates with varied financial capacities:
1. Fully Funded (Competitive Selection)
- Round-trip airfare
- Shared accommodation (4-star hotel)
- Daily breakfast and lunch during forum days
- Visa support and official invitation letter
- Access to all sessions, visits, and events
- Certificate of participation and forum merchandise
2. Partially Funded (Competitive Selection)
Includes most benefits above except airfare.
3. Forum Admission (Guaranteed upon payment)
Access to all sessions, events, visa support, and lunches but no airfare or accommodation support.
4. Self-Funded (Guaranteed upon payment)
Includes accommodation, meals, visa support, and full forum access.
Participants are selected through competitive applications for the funded categories, while some spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Who Can Apply?
The Youth Global Forum invites young leaders from across the world with the following eligibility:
- Age: 16 to 45 years
- Nationality: Open to all
- Background: Students, young professionals, activists, entrepreneurs, researchers, educators, creatives, and policy advocates are welcome
- No prerequisite experience is required, though passion for global issues and leadership is essential
How to Apply
Applications for funded and partially funded categories typically close around November 25–30, 2025. Prospective participants should submit their applications through the official Youth Global Forum website well before the deadline.
Why Attend the Youth Global Forum 2026?
Attending YGF 2026 offers significant value for personal and professional development:
- Global Network: Connect with changemakers from 100+ countries
- Skill Development: Gain practical leadership and policy competencies
- Experience: Participate in real-world dialogues and decision-making simulations
- Cultural Insight: Explore Madrid’s rich cultural and political ecosystem
- Opportunity: Potential project funding and future collaborations
An international youth leadership forum where young delegates from around the world convene in Madrid, Spain to discuss global issues, collaborate on solutions, and strengthen leadership capabilities.
The forum will be held in Madrid, Spain, from January 15 to 18, 2026.
Individuals aged 16 to 45 from any country with interest in leadership, policy, or community impact can apply.
Four categories: Fully Funded, Partially Funded, Forum Admission, and Self-Funded, with different levels of financial support.
Participants gain networking opportunities, leadership skills, access to expert dialogues, cultural experiences, and the chance to contribute to global solutions.