Are you a young leader or changemaker ready to join the biggest youth event of 2026? The Youth Development Forum (YDF) 2026 is here — and applications are now open! This fully funded international forum will take place in Berlin, Germany, from 7th to 10th May 2026.
Whether you’re a student, young professional, policymaker, volunteer, or social innovator — this could be your chance to meet global peers, learn from experts, and boost your leadership skills in a world-class setting.
What Is the Youth Development Forum (YDF)?
The Youth Development Forum is a four-day international gathering organized by the Center for Global Dialogue & Leadership (CGDL). CGDL has previously hosted one of the largest youth conferences in Switzerland, and now they are bringing that same energy to Berlin.
This forum aims to uplift the next generation of youth leaders — people who want to make a difference in areas like diplomacy, sustainable development, technology, and leadership.
Event Details — Quick Look
What Does “Fully Funded” Actually Cover?
For 2026, the Youth Development Forum is offering 30 fully funded scholarships. These include:
✈️ Travel & Logistics
🏨 Accommodation & Meals
📘 Forum Participation
🗺️ Activities & Tours
This is more than just a conference — it’s an international learning experience.
Focus Areas & Themes
The Youth Development Forum 2026 will focus on key topics that matter to young leaders today:
✅ Youth Diplomacy
✅ Leadership Development
✅ Sustainable Development
✅ Emerging Technologies
✅ 21st-Century Skills
These themes align closely with wider European goals like the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027 and the Council of Europe’s Youth Sector Priorities — which aim to empower youth and increase digital participation, inclusion, and leadership.
Who Should Apply?
This forum is designed for anyone between 16 and 46 years old from anywhere in the world — no matter your background.
You’re a great fit if you are:
No prior experience is required — what matters most is your motivation and commitment to growth.
How Are Participants Selected?
The selection committee looks at:
🔹 Your motivation and clarity of purpose
🔹 Community engagement and leadership potential
🔹 Relevance to the forum’s themes
🔹 Global awareness and willingness to learn
This means applications are judged on passion and potential, not just titles or resumes.
Skip the Stress: Other Participation Options
If you don’t secure a fully funded seat, there are other ways to join:
➤ Self-Funded Seats
Participate by covering your own travel and personal costs.
➤ Forum Access Only
A more affordable way to attend sessions and activities without full funding.
➤ Invitation Letter
Needed for visa support, especially if you need embassy confirmation.
All these options still give you access to key parts of the Youth Development Forum experience.
How to Apply
Applying is simple and fully online. Just follow the steps below:
👉 Apply Online Here:
https://cgdl-berlin.org/youth-development-forum-2026
(Use the official link to submit your application and get all details.)
Final Thoughts
The Youth Development Forum 2026 in Berlin is more than a conference — it’s a chance to grow your skills, meet global peers, and become part of an international network of young leaders.
Whether your passion is diplomacy, technology, policy, or social change, YDF 2026 gives you a real platform to learn, share, and grow.
So ask yourself:
Where could this experience take you next?
