Deadline:
June 15, 2026
Program Starts: July 13, 2026
Program Ends: July 17, 2026
Location(s)
Belgium
Brussels
Overview
The Young Diplomats Forum is your gateway to an extraordinary career in international relations and diplomacy. From the 13th-17th July 2026, join bright and accomplished individuals from around the world in Brussels to engage with key stakeholders, tackle pressing global issues, and gain invaluable insights.
Details
After 23 editions across global capitals ; including Brussels, London, and Washington D.C. in 2025, the Young Diplomats Forum is a five-day programme combining high-level institutional briefings, expert-led sessions, and immersive diplomatic skills training for emerging leaders under 35.
This edition invites students, recent graduates, and young professionals in international affairs to engage directly with the institutions, the debates, and the decision-makers shaping our world.
This is not a simulation. This is diplomacy in practice.
Why Brussels?
Brussels is home to the European Commission, the European Parliament, the Council of the EU, and NATO Headquarters — making it one of the most diplomatically significant cities on the planet. For anyone serious about a career in international affairs, there is no better classroom.
YDF Brussels gives participants unparalleled access to these institutions and the people inside them, at a moment when the questions they grapple with — on trade, defence, AI, and global realignment — have never been more consequential.
Success of our Alumni
Building upon the success of our 22nd editions of the Young Diplomats Forum held worldwide, we are delighted to witness our alumni assuming pivotal roles in the governments of 175 countries and international organisations such as the United Nations, WTO, EU institutions, NATO, ASEAN, the African Union, the Arab League, and others.
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Who is Eligible to Apply?
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Junior diplomats and early-career civil servants (0–5 years of experience)
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Under age of 30
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Students and recent graduates in international relations, political science, or international law
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Professionals transitioning into diplomacy or global policy roles
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Practitioners in international affairs–related fields, including development, security, trade, or human rights
Dates
Deadline: June 15, 2026
Program starts:
July 13, 2026
Program ends:
July 17, 2026
Program Starts: July 13, 2026
Program Ends: July 17, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
Fees
The cost of participation is £995. Please note that this does not include accommodation. Places are limited, so please apply and prepare in advance. Please see our terms and conditions. The fees include the programme, lunches during each day and travel during the week.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
