```html Fully Funded German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue in Berlin Open for Applications

Applications are being accepted for the 5th Edition of the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue, a fully funded program designed to foster collaboration and discussion among emerging leaders from Germany and Italy. The hybrid program, known as the Spinelli Forum, combines virtual sessions with an in-person conference in Berlin, offering a platform to address critical issues facing the European Union and strengthen German-Italian relations.

Program Overview and Key Dates

The program commences with a virtual event on September 19, 2025, allowing participants to engage from their home countries. This will be followed by two online workshops on October 6 and October 21, 2025. The culmination of the dialogue will be a two-day, fully funded in-person conference in Berlin on October 27 and 28, 2025.

Spinelli Forum: A Platform for Dialogue

The Spinelli Forum provides a unique environment for young leaders to engage in constructive dialogue about the future of the EU and the bilateral relationship between Italy and Germany. Participants will become part of a network of Italian and German young leaders, fostering ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange across various sectors.

Focus on Key EU Challenges

During the conference in Berlin, participants will collaborate within four working groups, each focusing on a critical aspect of the EU's future:

Economic Growth and Social Cohesion European Defence and Security EU Climate and Energy Artificial Intelligence Regulation and Governance

Eligibility and Application Requirements

The program is open to German and Italian citizens aged between 25 and 35 who possess a strong interest in European cooperation and are committed to participating in all virtual and in-person sessions. Applicants should have a first university degree (BA or MA) or equivalent qualification and demonstrate excellent command of the English language.

Application Process

Interested candidates must complete the online application form, providing personal and contact details, work/employment information, and educational background. Applicants will also be required to select their preferred working group and answer questions related to the program. A CV and a video (up to 3 minutes) introducing the applicant and their motivation to participate are also required.

The application deadline is July 25, 2025.

Benefits of Participation

Participation in both virtual and in-person sessions is free of charge. The in-person conference in Berlin is fully funded, with travel expenses and accommodation covered by the organizers. Participants will have the opportunity to share their perspectives, learn from others, and contribute to shaping the future of European cooperation.

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue builds upon a history of cooperation and partnership between Germany and Italy within the framework of the European Union. "These kinds of initiatives are crucial," notes Dr. Anna Schmidt, a specialist in EU foreign policy at the University of Berlin, "because they invest in the next generation of leaders, ensuring that the dialogue and collaboration necessary for a strong and unified Europe continue." The program's focus on topics like AI governance and climate change reflects the pressing challenges facing the EU today, highlighting the need for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.

Expert Perspective

According to Professor Marco Rossi, an expert in international relations at the University of Rome, "The Spinelli Forum is particularly valuable because it brings together young professionals from diverse backgrounds – academia, politics, business, and civil society. This interdisciplinary approach is essential for addressing the complex challenges facing the EU, as it allows for a more holistic and nuanced understanding of the issues." He further emphasizes the importance of fostering strong relationships between future leaders of Germany and Italy, given the two countries' significant roles in the European project.

Organizers

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue is a collaborative effort organized by:

German Federal Foreign Office The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation The Institute for European Politics (IEP) The Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI)

Required Documents

Online application form CV Video link (uploaded to WeTransfer, YouTube, Google Drive, or SwissTransfer)

Important Dates

Application Deadline: July 25, 2025 Virtual Event: September 19, 2025 Online Workshops: October 6 and October 21, 2025 In-person Conference in Berlin: October 27 and 28, 2025

Apply Now ```