The Global Youth Summit for Change (GYSC) 2026 is a premier international gathering designed to empower young leaders to respond to today’s most urgent global challenges. As the world faces climate crises, social inequality, political instability, and economic uncertainty, young people continue to drive innovation, advocacy, and grassroots solutions—yet their voices remain underrepresented in global decision-making spaces.
GYSC 2026 aims to bridge this gap by creating a high-level platform where youth leaders, activists, social innovators, and emerging policymakers can engage directly with international institutions, global experts, and peers from around the world.
Hosted in Geneva, Switzerland, a global hub for diplomacy and multilateral cooperation, the summit will bring together over 100 participants from diverse backgrounds to co-create solutions that advance peace, sustainability, and social justice.
- Geneva, Switzerland | 🗓 27–30 August 2026
- Hosted by: Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP)
In partnership with: United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Vision and Objectives
GYSC is founded on the belief that sustainable global change must be youth-led. The summit is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, networks, and confidence needed to influence systems and drive inclusive development.
Key objectives include:
- Building youth leadership capacity through mentorship and skills training
- Encouraging cross-cultural dialogue on shared global challenges
- Supporting youth-led policy proposals and advocacy initiatives
- Strengthening collaboration between youth, policymakers, and international organisations
- Transforming dialogue into actionable community-level impact projects
What Participants Will Experience
The Global Youth Summit for Change 2026 offers an immersive and interactive programme that blends inspiration, learning, and action.
Programme highlights include:
- High-level keynote speeches from global leaders, Nobel laureates, and youth changemakers
- Expert-led panel discussions on emerging global trends and policy opportunities
- Hands-on workshops focused on leadership, advocacy, project management, and social innovation
- Networking and mentorship sessions with international professionals and institutions
- Youth-led action planning to develop post-summit initiatives
- Cultural exchange activities celebrating global diversity and collaboration
Thematic Focus Areas
The summit programme is built around key global priority areas:
- Climate Action and Sustainability
Youth-driven solutions for climate advocacy, renewable energy, and environmental protection - Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
Dialogue-based approaches to reconciliation, social cohesion, and sustainable peace - Digital Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship
Using technology and enterprise to solve social and environmental challenges - Human Rights and Social Justice
Advancing inclusion, equity, and dignity through advocacy and community engagement - Global Governance and Policy Advocacy
Strengthening youth participation in international decision-making processes
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to motivated individuals aged 18–35 who are actively committed to creating positive change at local, national, or global levels.
Eligible applicants include:
- Young leaders and changemakers
- Activists and early-career policymakers
- Social entrepreneurs and innovators
- Members of NGOs and youth-led organisations
- Students and researchers in international relations and related fields
- Representatives of international or multilateral institutions
Selection is based on leadership potential, motivation, diversity of perspectives, and commitment to impact.
Participation Packages
To accommodate different needs, two participation options are available:
Full Experience Package – 1,399 CHF (Accommodation Included)
- Shared accommodation in a 4-star hotel (3 nights, gender-specific rooms)
- Complimentary Geneva public transport pass
- Daily breakfast during the summit
- Official invitation letter for visa or institutional purposes
- Full access to all summit sessions, including UN Geneva opening and guided tour
- Summit merchandise
- Speaking opportunity during summit sessions
- Certificate of participation co-issued by YCDP and UNITAR
- Farewell networking dinner
Summit Access Package – 799 CHF (Without Accommodation)
- Official invitation letter
- Full access to all summit sessions and UN Geneva activities
- Summit merchandise
- Speaking opportunity
- Certificate of participation
- Farewell networking dinner
About the Host Organisation
The Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP) is a Geneva-based non-governmental organisation committed to empowering young people to address global challenges through dialogue, collaboration, and action. YCDP works internationally to promote youth leadership in peacebuilding, sustainability, and social development, with a strong emphasis on inclusive participation and policy engagement.
Why Geneva, Switzerland?
Geneva is one of the world’s most important centres for international diplomacy and global governance, hosting numerous United Nations agencies, multilateral institutions, and global civil society organisations. Hosting GYSC in Geneva provides participants with rare exposure to global policy environments and reinforces the summit’s mission of connecting youth voices with international decision-making processes.
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official website to register and secure their spot at the Global Youth Summit for Change (GYSC) 2026.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with global leaders, amplify your voice, and be part of shaping solutions for a more peaceful and sustainable world.
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