The UNESCO Youth Forum 2026 is a global platform connected to UNESCO that gives young people a voice in shaping policies on education, science, culture, and sustainability. As one of the most respected youth engagement platforms — alongside events like the Youth World Summit 2026 in Paris — it connects young leaders directly with international decision-making.
This guide explains what the forum involves, who can attend, the benefits, and how to apply.
What Is the UNESCO Youth Forum 2026?
The UNESCO Youth Forum is a platform where young people aged roughly 18 to 35 engage with UNESCO’s work — contributing ideas on education, science, culture, and the Sustainable Development Goals. It emphasises dialogue, collaboration, and youth-led recommendations that feed into global policy.
Who Can Attend?
Participation is typically open to young people from UNESCO member states, often selected through national or organisational channels. Students, young professionals, and activists engaged in UNESCO’s areas of work are encouraged to take part. Confirm the current process on the official page.
Benefits of Participating
- Direct engagement with global policy
- International networking with peers and experts
- Skill development in advocacy and collaboration
- Recognition on a respected global platform
How to Apply for the UNESCO Youth Forum 2026
- Check the eligibility and selection process on the official page.
- Prepare a strong application or nomination.
- Highlight your engagement in UNESCO’s areas of work.
- Apply early and follow all requirements carefully.
Explore more in our UN youth conferences 2026 and Global Youth Forum 2026 guides, or apply to the Youth World Summit 2026 in Paris.
It is a global platform connected to UNESCO where young people contribute ideas on education, science, culture, and sustainability, feeding youth-led recommendations into policy.
Young people from UNESCO member states, often aged 18 to 35 and selected through national or organisational channels. Confirm the current process on the official page.
Benefits include direct engagement with global policy, international networking, skill development in advocacy, and recognition on a respected global platform.
Check the eligibility and selection process, prepare a strong application or nomination, highlight your engagement in UNESCO’s areas, and apply early.