Youth Forum on UN Global Goals 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity in Geneva, Switzerland
The Youth Forum on UN Global Goals (YFGG) 2026 will bring together young changemakers, students, professionals, activists, researchers, entrepreneurs and emerging leaders from around the world for a four-day in-person forum in Geneva, Switzerland, from December 14–17, 2026.
Designed for participants aged 15 to 45, the forum is open to applicants of all nationalities and educational backgrounds. The event focuses on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, peacebuilding, diplomacy, mediation, sustainable development and international cooperation.
A Global Youth Forum in Geneva
The second edition of the Youth Forum on UN Global Goals aims to connect youth perspectives with international policy and grassroots action.
The 2026 theme is “Sustainable Development, Peace & Global Cooperation”, with discussions and practical activities structured around six key areas:
- UN Sustainable Development Goals – exploring all 17 Global Goals as a framework for international action.
- Youth-Led Sustainable Development – supporting initiatives created and implemented by young people.
- Peacebuilding & Social Cohesion – promoting tolerance, intercultural understanding and peaceful conflict resolution.
- Inclusive Growth & Global Partnerships – encouraging international cooperation and economic participation.
- Leadership for Resilient Futures – developing skills in diplomacy, critical thinking and policy dialogue.
- Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution – providing practical exposure to mediation and ADR approaches.
Fully Funded Places Available
The forum plans to welcome 160 delegates across five categories:
- 80 scholarship seats
- 40 self-funded seats
- 40 forum access passes
The organizers describe the event as one of the competitive youth forums taking place in Geneva, with scholarship opportunities available for selected participants.
Applicants should carefully review the official terms and conditions to determine exactly what expenses are covered under the scholarship category.
Who Can Apply?
The Youth Forum on UN Global Goals is designed to accommodate applicants from a wide range of backgrounds.
Eligible profiles include:
- Young people aged 15–45
- Applicants from all nationalities
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Researchers from any academic discipline
- Professionals and entrepreneurs
- Youth leaders and activists
- Social entrepreneurs
- Policymakers and public servants
- Lawyers and judges
- People working in diplomacy, governance, mediation and development
No specific academic background is required. The organizers state that applicants passionate about sustainable development, diplomacy, mediation, peace and the UN Sustainable Development Goals are encouraged to apply.
The official working language of the forum is English.
Why Geneva?
Geneva provides a particularly relevant setting for a forum focused on global cooperation and international policy.
The city hosts major international institutions, including the United Nations Office at Geneva, World Health Organization (WHO) and World Trade Organization (WTO). CERN, one of the world’s leading scientific research institutions, is also located in the Geneva region.
For participants, the location offers an opportunity to experience a major international hub for diplomacy, multilateral cooperation, science and global policymaking.
What Will Participants Gain?
According to the organizers, participants will have opportunities to:
- Participate in international, UN-style discussions
- Explore the Sustainable Development Goals
- Develop leadership and diplomacy skills
- Connect with youth leaders from different countries
- Learn from professionals working in policy, law and development
- Participate in practical sessions and workshops
- Gain international exposure
- Receive certification issued by CGAD
- Exchange ideas and experiences with participants from different cultural backgrounds
- Develop SDG-related initiatives that can be continued after the forum
The event is intended not only as a conference but also as a platform for networking, skills development and collaboration between young people working on global challenges.
Four Days in Geneva
Dates: December 14–17, 2026
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Format: In-person, four-day forum
Participants: 160 delegates
Age range: 15–45
Eligibility: All nationalities
Theme: Sustainable Development, Peace & Global Cooperation
With its focus on the UN Global Goals, peacebuilding and international cooperation, the Youth Forum on UN Global Goals 2026 could be particularly relevant for students, young professionals, activists and emerging leaders looking to build international networks and gain experience in global policy discussions.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should consult the official Youth Forum on UN Global Goals website for the application procedure, eligibility requirements, scholarship conditions and deadlines before submitting an application.
Apply through the official forum website:
https://thecgad.org/yfgg/ref/537/
TrainingsNews recommends that applicants verify all funding details, eligibility conditions and application deadlines directly with the organizers before making travel or financial commitments.