The Youth Global Forum 2026 (YGF 2026) is one of the most anticipated international youth leadership gatherings taking place from January 15 to 18, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. Organized by the Centre for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL), this four-day event brings together young changemakers from around the world to discuss solutions to global challenges, develop leadership skills, and build strategic international networks.
What Is the Youth Global Forum?
The Youth Global Forum 2026 is an international platform designed to amplify youth voices and foster collaborative action on issues such as climate change, artificial intelligence, economic instability, human rights, democratic participation, and mental health. It aligns with broader European Union youth strategies like the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027 and the European Youth Work Agenda, reinforcing its relevance in global youth policy discourse.
Unlike traditional conferences, the forum combines policy discussions, interactive workshops, simulations, cultural exchange, and real-world learning opportunities.
Key Themes Explored at the Forum
Under the theme “Leading the Future: Dialogue, Action, and Impact in an Age of Uncertainty,” the Forum focuses on several major global issues:
- Artificial Intelligence disruption
- Climate change and sustainability
- Youth unemployment and economic instability
- Democratic participation and civic engagement
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Peacebuilding and human rights protection
These themes are explored through sessions where young participants generate ideas, debate solutions, and propose actionable recommendations.
What to Expect — Activities & Opportunities
1. Policy Dialogues & Youth-Led Discussions
Participants engage in high-level conversations and roundtables, giving youth a seat at the table with experts, policymakers, and global leaders.
2. Workshops & Innovation Labs
Hands-on workshops focus on leadership, communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills — essential for real impact in communities worldwide.
3. Mock Global Policy Simulation
Delegates participate in simulated policy negotiations, gaining firsthand experience in diplomacy and international decision-making.
4. Cultural Exchange & Networking
Immerse yourself in Spain’s vibrant culture and connect with young leaders from more than 100 countries.
5. Project Pitch Competition
Delegate-driven ideas are showcased in a grant competition, where one standout project can receive up to $1,000 for community action.
Participation Categories & What They Include
Participation is structured into four main categories, each with a distinct set of benefits:
1. Fully Funded (Competitive Selection)
- Round-trip airfare
- 4-star shared accommodation (3 nights)
- Visa support and invitation letter
- Meals (daily breakfast + lunch on forum days)
- Full access to all sessions and visits
- Certificate of participation and forum merchandise
- Cultural evenings and networking opportunities
This category is highly competitive.
2. Partially Funded (Competitive Selection)
Similar to fully funded, but airfare is not included.
3. Forum Admission (Guaranteed via Payment)
Ensures full access to the program with visa support and meals.
4. Self-Funded (Guaranteed via Payment)
Includes accommodation, sessions, meals, and cultural events, without airfare.
Seats are limited for each category, and early registration is strongly recommended.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility for YGF 2026 is broad:
- Open to young leaders globally
- Age range: 16 to 45 years
- Students, graduates, young entrepreneurs, activists, educators, researchers, community leaders, creatives, and policy advocates are especially encouraged to apply
- No strict academic or experience prerequisites — passion and commitment matter most
How to Apply
Applications for funded seats usually close around November 25–30, 2025, so prospective participants should apply early on the official forum website before the deadline.
Why Attend the Youth Global Forum 2026?
Participating in YGF offers significant personal, professional, and social value:
- Global Networking: Build connections with peers and mentors from around the world.
- Skill Development: Gain practical skills through workshops and policy labs.
- Leadership Exposure: Amplify your voice on global issues.
- Cultural Experience: Explore Madrid’s rich cultural and political environment.
- Career Opportunities: Elevate your profile on an international stage.
It is an international youth leadership forum in Madrid, bringing young changemakers together to discuss critical global issues and propose actionable solutions.
The forum runs from January 15–18, 2026, in Madrid, Spain.
Anyone aged 16–45 with a passion for positive social impact and leadership from any country can apply.
Benefits include global networking, leadership skill building, policy engagement, cultural exchange, certification, and potential grant funding for community projects.
Applications should be submitted through the official forum website before the deadline, typically in late November 2025. Early application is recommended due to limited seats.