Youth Global Forum (YGF) 2026 in Madrid, Spain
Applications are officially open for the Youth Global Forum (YGF) 2026 in Madrid, Spain. Organized by the Centre for Global Dialogue and Leadership (CGDL), this four-day global summit will bring together young changemakers from over 100 countries to engage in dialogue, develop practical skills, and build impactful networks.
The YGF 2026 is scheduled to run from January 15 to 18, 2026, under the theme: “Leading the Future: Dialogue, Action, and Impact in an Age of Uncertainty.”
📋 Program Details & Funding Categories
A total of 150 seats are available across four funding categories, ensuring opportunities for diverse global participation:
| Funding Category | Seats Available | Benefits |
| Fully Funded | 30 | Covers Round-trip Airfare, 4-Star Shared Accommodation (3 nights), Meals (Breakfast & Lunch), Full Forum Access, Study Visits, Visa Support, and Merchandise. |
| Partially Funded | 40 | Covers Accommodation, Meals, Full Forum Access, Study Visits, Visa Support, and Merchandise (Participant covers airfare). |
| Forum Admission | 30 | Covers Full Forum Access, Study Visits, Visa Support, and Merchandise (Participant covers travel, accommodation, and meals). |
| Self-Funded | 50 | Covers all costs (Participant pays a registration fee to secure attendance). |
Key Activities and Benefits
The YGF Madrid is an immersive experience designed to bridge theory with practical application and political exposure:
- Political Immersion: Guided visits to the Spanish Parliament, policy institutions, and local innovation hubs.
- Skill Development: Interactive Skill-Building Workshops and solution labs focused on practical problem-solving.
- Policy Engagement: Youth-led plenary sessions, policy roundtables, and a mock global policy simulation.
- Grant Competition: An opportunity to pitch community projects and compete for grant funding.
- Networking: Cultural evenings and events to connect with global leaders, experts, and peers.
Long-term Benefits: Participants will gain expertise from global leaders, build an international network for future career opportunities, and enhance crucial soft skills like public speaking and problem-solving.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
The forum is open to applicants from all over the world, regardless of academic background:
- Age: Must be between 16 and 45 years old.
- Nationality: Open to applicants from all over the world.
- Background: Must be active as a student, youth leader, activist, entrepreneur, educator, researcher, or creative professional.
- Interest: Must have an interest or experience in areas like policy, sustainability, human rights, or community work.
- Language: No IELTS or TOEFL required to apply.
📝 How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the official YGF website before the deadline:
- Click the “Apply Now” button on the official application page.
- Carefully fill in all the required fields in the application form.
- Answer the motivational questions thoughtfully, as they are essential for the selection process, particularly for funded spots.
- Review and submit your application on time.
| Key Program Dates | |
| Application Deadline | November 25, 2025 |
| Forum Dates | January 15 – 18, 2026 |
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