- Jan 15–18, 2026
- Madrid, Spain
- Venue: The Centre for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL)
Youth Global Forum 2026
Madrid, Spain
Join emerging leaders at the Youth Global Forum 2026 in Madrid for powerful workshops, networking, and global innovation sessions.
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About Event
Empowering Youth for a Changing World
The world is transforming rapidly—from breakthroughs in artificial intelligence to rising climate threats, youth unemployment, and growing global uncertainty. These shifts bring both extraordinary opportunities and complex challenges for the next generation.
Youth Global Forum 2026 is a unique international platform that unites young changemakers from across the world to explore, debate, and design the future they want to lead. Organized by the Centre for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL), an independent Canadian public policy institute, the forum empowers youth through meaningful participation, policy engagement, and leadership development.
Aligned with major European Union youth frameworks, including:
EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027
EU Youth Dialogue
European Youth Work Agenda
The forum continues CGDL’s mission to elevate youth voices and equip emerging leaders to drive innovation, action, and impact at a global scale.
Forum Themes
What We’ll Explore Together
Explore the central themes that guide the forum’s discussions, workshops, and youth-led initiatives.
Artificial Intelligence Disruption
How AI is transforming jobs, society, and human identity.
Climate Degradation & Sustainability Threats
Addressing environmental risks and building a greener future.
Economic Instability & Youth Unemployment
Emerging economic pressures and pathways for youth empowerment.
Erosion of Democratic Values & Participation
Safeguarding civic engagement and strengthening democratic resilience.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Crises
Understanding global mental health challenges and support systems.
Peacebuilding & Human Rights Protection
Promoting global peace, justice, and protection of fundamental rights.
Who Should Apply?
We invite passionate young leaders aged 16–45 from all backgrounds and regions, including:
- Youth activists and community advocates
- Social entrepreneurs and digital innovators
- Environmental leaders and sustainability champions
- Policy students, researchers, and educators
- Creatives, communicators, and storytellers shaping global conversations
Why Join?
Become part of a global movement shaping the future. Gain skills, build networks, and experience the cultural and political heartbeat of Madrid.
- Connect with youth leaders from 100+ countries
- Co-create solutions to major global challenges
- Experience Madrid’s rich political and cultural landscape
- Develop leadership, communication, and professional skills
- Gain global visibility and join a community driving real change
TicketING
Youth Global Forum 2026 Madrid, Spain
Explore flexible Youth Global Forum 2026 registration options designed to accommodate individuals, student groups, and organizations — making it easier for everyone to participate and benefit from this global youth gathering.
Fully Funded Admission
- Round-trip airfare
- 4-star shared accommodation (3 nights)
- Visa Support (Invitation & Guidance)
- Breakfast & lunch during forum days
- Full access to all sessions
- Forum merchandise
- Cultural exchange night
- Certificate of participation
Self-Funded Admission
- Round-trip airfare
- 4-star shared accommodation (3 nights)
- Visa Support (Invitation & Guidance)
- Breakfast & lunch during forum days
- Full session access
- Premium merchandise
- Cultural exchange night
- Certificate of participation
Visa Invitation Letter
- CGDL-stamped invitation letter
- 4-star shared accommodation (3 nights)
- Full visa support
- Travel guidance
- Embassy submission assistance
- Speaking Opportunity
- Graduation Certification
Upcoming Events
What to Expect
Youth Global Forum 2026 goes far beyond a traditional conference — offering a powerful mix of policy dialogue, cultural exchange, hands-on learning, and global collaboration designed to inspire real change.
🌍 Cultural Evenings & Global Networking
Immerse yourself in Spain’s rich culture while building meaningful connections with young leaders from 100+ countries through vibrant cultural showcases and dynamic networking sessions.
🏛️ Diplomatic Dialogues & High-Level Engagements
Interact with diplomats, global experts, and policy influencers to gain firsthand insight into how international cooperation shapes today’s critical global issues.
💡 $1,000 Innovation Pitch Challenge
Present your community project idea for a chance to win up to $1,000 in seed funding along with mentorship to help bring your vision to life.
🎤 Youth-Led Plenaries & Policy Roundtables
Take the stage with other young delegates to discuss global challenges, share lived experiences, and propose actionable policy solutions that matter.
🔧 Skill-Building Workshops & Innovation Labs
Participate in practical, hands-on sessions designed to strengthen leadership, communication, creativity, and problem-solving — turning bold ideas into real outcomes.
🌐 Global Policy Simulation (Model Forum)
Experience the thrill of international diplomacy as you step into the role of global decision-makers and work through realistic, fast-paced negotiation simulations.
Event Venue
Join the leading global event focused on boosting economic growth and building stronger.
- Madrid, Spain
- Jan 15–18, 2026
Our Previous Engagements
Morocco
From thought-provoking discussions to actionable workshops, this conference gave me the tools and confidence I needed to launch my own sustainability project.
Germany
The energy, diversity, and depth of ideas were simply unmatched. I've never felt more empowered as a youth leader.
Mei-Ling
Attending the Global Youth Conference opened so many doors. I met future collaborators and mentors who are now part of my journey.
Brazil
One of the best youth events I've ever attended. Practical, global, and truly empowering. I’ll definitely be back next year!
Tunisia
This conference is not just an event—it’s a movement. It taught me that youth voices matter, and together, we’re unstoppable.
Italy
From climate change to digital innovation, every session was packed with value. It felt amazing to be surrounded by changemakers.
Kenya
The networking alone was worth it—but the ideas and global connections I took home made it unforgettable.
Canada
I was nervous at first, but the environment was so welcoming. I left with new confidence, new friends, and a new vision for my future.
Spain
If you care about global change, this is the place to be. Every youth should attend this at least once in their life.
Argentina
Partners & Sponsor
Our Official Partners and Sponsor
We proudly collaborate with leading organizations and brands whose support helps make this event possible. Explore our official partners and sponsors driving innovation and impact.
Questions? We have Answers
Who can apply for the Youth Global Forum 2026?
Young leaders aged 16–45 from any country are welcome to apply, including activists, students, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
Do I need prior experience in leadership or policy to join?
No. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Passion, motivation, and interest in global issues are the key criteria.
What does the Fully Funded package include?
The fully funded award covers round-trip airfare, 4-star shared accommodation, visa support, meals, forum access, certificate, networking events, and more.
Is the Fully Funded category guaranteed?
No. Fully funded seats follow a competitive selection process. Only the self-funded package offers guaranteed admission on a first-come basis.
What does the Self-Funded package include?
Self-funded participants receive airfare, hotel stay, visa support, meals, merchandise, full forum access, certificate, and participation in all cultural and networking events.
Can I apply if I only need a visa invitation letter?
Yes. A Visa Invitation Letter Package is available, which includes the official CGDL-stamped letter, a document checklist, and personalized visa guidance.
What can I expect during the forum?
Participants engage in policy dialogues, cultural exchange, workshops, innovation labs, a $1,000 pitch competition, policy simulations, and networking with youth and experts from 100+ countries.
The Global Youth Conference was a life-changing experience! I connected with passionate young leaders from around the world and left inspired to make a real impact in my community.