```html Fully Funded German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue to Foster EU Cooperation

Applications are now being accepted for the 5th Edition of the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue, a fully funded program designed to cultivate collaboration and address critical challenges facing the European Union. The hybrid program, organized by the Spinelli Forum, combines virtual sessions with an in-person conference in Berlin, offering a unique platform for young leaders to engage in discussions and network with peers from both Germany and Italy.

The program aims to foster a deeper understanding of the relationship between Italy and Germany within the broader context of European cooperation. Participants will explore pressing issues such as economic growth, social cohesion, European defense and security, climate and energy policy, and the regulation and governance of artificial intelligence.

Program Structure and Key Dates

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 will commence with a virtual event on September 19th, allowing participants to attend from their home countries. This will be followed by two online workshops scheduled for October 6th and October 21st, 2025. The program culminates in a two-day, fully funded in-person conference in Berlin on October 27th and 28th, 2025.

Spinelli Forum: A Catalyst for Dialogue

The Spinelli Forum, named after Altiero Spinelli, a key figure in the European integration movement, provides the framework for this initiative. The Forum emphasizes open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, aiming to generate innovative solutions to contemporary European challenges. Participants will become part of a network of Italian and German young leaders, promoting ongoing collaboration beyond the program's duration.

Benefits of Participation

Free attendance to both virtual and in-person sessions. Opportunity to participate in virtual sessions from your home country. Fully funded in-person conference in Berlin, including travel expenses and accommodation. A platform to share your perspectives and learn from other young leaders. Membership in a network of Italian and German young leaders.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a German or Italian citizen aged between 25 and 35 years old. Possess a strong interest in European cooperation, particularly in the areas of defense and security policy, economics, artificial intelligence, or climate and energy policy. Hold a first university degree (BA or MA) or equivalent qualification. Demonstrate excellent command of the English language. Commit to participating in all virtual and in-person sessions.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply through the online application form. The application process requires providing personal and contact details, work/employment information, educational background, and preferred working group. Applicants must also answer program-related questions, upload their CV, and submit a link to a video (up to 3 minutes) introducing themselves and their motivation for participating.

Required documents include:

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

The application deadline is July 25, 2025.

Apply Now: [Official Link]

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Cross-Border Dialogue

Dr. Anya Schmidt, Professor of European Studies at the University of Berlin:

"In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, initiatives like the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue are crucial for fostering understanding and collaboration across borders. By bringing together young leaders from diverse backgrounds, the program cultivates a shared vision for the future of Europe and equips participants with the skills and networks necessary to address the challenges facing the continent. The focus on key areas such as AI governance and climate policy reflects the program's commitment to addressing the most pressing issues of our time."

Historical and Current Context of Scholarship Programs

Scholarship programs like this have a rich history, evolving from primarily supporting theological studies in medieval times to encompassing a wide range of academic disciplines and professional fields today. Government-sponsored scholarships, in particular, play a vital role in promoting international cooperation and fostering talent development. In the context of the European Union, such programs contribute to the broader goal of creating a more integrated and competitive knowledge-based economy.

Currently, there's a growing emphasis on scholarships that promote leadership development and address critical global challenges. The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue aligns with this trend by focusing on key areas of European cooperation and empowering young individuals to become active agents of change.

Organizers

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

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)

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