Apply now for the World Youth Forum 2026 in Porto, Portugal. Running from 19–22 February 2026, the forum offers fully funded, partially funded, and free-access seats for young leaders worldwide. Learn eligibility, program themes, benefits, participation tiers, and how to register.
Overview: World Youth Forum 2026
The World Youth Forum 2026, taking place from 19–22 February 2026 at the Porto Palacio Hotel & World Trade Centre in Porto, Portugal, is a four-day leadership and innovation program designed to empower young changemakers from across the globe.
Now in its second edition, the forum brings together emerging leaders, activists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and students for immersive workshops, intercultural dialogue, global networking, and skills development. With a strong emphasis on sustainable development, innovation, and civic leadership, the program equips participants to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
The event is organized by the Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA) and offers scholarship seats, fully funded opportunities, and self-funded participation tiers, making it accessible to applicants from all backgrounds.
Program Objectives
The World Youth Forum 2026 aims to nurture a generation of globally minded leaders by focusing on:
Promoting Youth and Civic Activism
Empowering young people to engage in civic life, influence public policy, and lead social-change initiatives.
Enhancing Capacity Building
Developing practical skills in leadership, project management, policy design, communication, and community organizing.
Fostering Social Innovation
Encouraging participants to design innovative, entrepreneurial solutions to global and community-level challenges.
Cultivating Global Collaboration
Connecting emerging leaders with peers and organizations from around the world to foster long-term partnerships.
Inspiring Sustainable Action
Providing tools and inspiration to launch impact-driven projects aligned with global development priorities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age:
- Scholarship Seats: 18–45 years
- Self-Funded Seats: No age limit
- Nationality: Open to all nationalities
- Language: Proficiency in English (all sessions conducted in English)
- Leadership Interest: Demonstrated passion for leadership, community development, and global issues
- Availability: Ability to attend all four days of the program
Program Themes
The forum will address pressing global challenges across several thematic tracks:
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Youth Entrepreneurship & Innovation
- Digital Transformation & Future Technologies
- Climate Action & Environmental Stewardship
- Global Citizenship & Intercultural Dialogue
- AI Usage & Policy Development
- Blockchain Education for Young Learners
Scholarship Opportunities Available
To ensure accessibility, the World Youth Forum 2026 offers several funding options:
1. Fully Funded Scholarships (50 seats)
Includes:
- Airfare
- Shared 5-star accommodation
- Forum meals
- Premium program toolkit and merchandise
- Visa support + acceptance letter
- Invitation letter
- Speaking & networking opportunities
2. Partially Funded Seats (100 seats)
Includes:
- Shared accommodation
- Forum meals
- Visa support + acceptance letter
- Premium toolkit and merchandise
- Access to all sessions and speaking platforms
3. Free Forum Access (100 seats)
Includes:
- Forum meals
- Acceptance + visa support letter
- Program toolkit and merchandise
- Speaking and networking opportunities
Participation Tiers (Paid Options)
Fully Funded Tier
Fee: $17 (administrative onboarding fee)
Includes airfare, accommodation, meals, merchandise, visa support, acceptance letter, and full program access.
Forum Access Tier
Original: $499 | Discounted: $299
Includes access to all sessions, meals, merchandise, and acceptance/visa support letters.
Self-Funded Premium Tier
Original: $999 | Discounted: $499
Includes:
- Full program access
- 5-star shared accommodation
- Meals
- Visa support
- Premium merchandise toolkit
Selection Criteria for Scholarships
Applicants are evaluated on:
- Leadership Potential – Demonstrated leadership in community, academic, or professional settings.
- Community Engagement – Active involvement in social causes or volunteer projects.
- Communication Skills – Ability to articulate ideas and participate in dialogue.
- Motivation & Vision – A clear commitment to contributing to global development and social change.
What Happened at World Youth Forum 2024 (1st Edition)
The inaugural World Youth Forum 2024 gathered participants from diverse disciplines—activists, lawyers, healthcare professionals, students, and community leaders. Hosted by CDA at the Porto Palacio Hotel, the forum emphasized diplomacy, peacebuilding, and global cooperation. Attendees engaged in high-level discussions, workshops, and networking that sparked meaningful collaborations and long-term impact initiatives.
How to Apply for World Youth Forum 2026
Step 1: Visit the official registration portal
Step 2: Select your preferred participation tier (scholarship, free access, or self-funded)
Step 3: Upload required documents (CV, motivation statement, passport copy, etc.)
Step 4: Submit the application before the deadline
Step 5: Await selection email and visa support documents
Limited seats available. Early application is strongly encouraged.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | World Youth Forum 2026 |
| Dates | 19–22 February 2026 |
| Location | Porto Palacio Hotel, Porto, Portugal |
| Organizer | Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA) |
| Eligibility | Open to all nationalities; Age 18–45 for scholarships |
| Language | English |
| Funding | Fully funded, partial, free access, or self-funded |
| Program Themes | SDGs, innovation, climate action, AI policy, blockchain, digital transformation |
| Deadline | Limited seats; early registration recommended |
| Duration | 4 days |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can join the World Youth Forum 2026?
Anyone interested in leadership, global issues, and youth development. Scholarship seats require applicants to be 18–45.
2. Are there fully funded opportunities?
Yes, 50 fully funded seats cover airfare, accommodation, meals, merchandise, and visa support.
3. Is the event open to all nationalities?
Yes, applicants from all countries can apply.
4. What are the program themes?
SDGs, innovation, climate action, AI policy, digital transformation, entrepreneurship, intercultural dialogue, and more.
5. Can first-time conference attendees apply?
Yes, no prior international conference experience is required.
6. Will I receive visa support?
Yes. All participation tiers include acceptance and visa support letters.
7. What is the forum duration?
Four days: 19–22 February 2026.
Conclusion
The World Youth Forum 2026 offers an exceptional platform for young leaders worldwide to build skills, expand networks, and participate in global dialogues on the most pressing issues of our time. With multiple scholarship tiers and accessible participation options, the forum ensures that motivated individuals can join regardless of financial background.
