German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue Announces Fully Funded Forum in Berlin

Applications are now being accepted for the 5th Edition of the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue, culminating in a fully funded in-person conference in Berlin, Germany, on October 27-28, 2025. The hybrid program, organized by the Spinelli Forum, aims to foster collaboration and address critical challenges facing the European Union, with a particular focus on German-Italian relations. The deadline for applications is July 25, 2025.

Hybrid Format Combines Virtual and In-Person Engagement

The program begins virtually 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, leading up to the two-day in-person conference in Berlin. This structure allows for extended engagement and deeper exploration of key topics.

Focus on Key EU Challenges

The dialogue will center on pressing issues facing the EU, including economic growth and social cohesion, European defence and security, EU climate and energy, and artificial intelligence regulation and governance. Participants will be divided into working groups to delve into these areas and develop innovative solutions.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Cross-Border Dialogue

Dr. Anna Schmidt, a Senior Fellow at the Institute for European Politics (IEP), emphasizes the significance of such dialogues. "In an increasingly complex global landscape, fostering understanding and collaboration between future leaders from different nations is crucial," she states. "The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue provides a vital platform for these emerging leaders to exchange ideas, build networks, and contribute to shaping the future of the European Union."

Eligibility and Benefits

The program is open to young German and Italian leaders aged 25-35 from diverse fields such as academia, politics, business, civil society, media, and the social sector. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in European cooperation and commit to participating in all virtual and in-person sessions.

The benefits of participation include:

Free attendance to both virtual and in-person sessions. Fully funded in-person conference in Berlin. Coverage of travel expenses. Provided accommodation during the Berlin conference. Opportunity to contribute to discussions and learn from diverse perspectives.

Application Process

Interested candidates must complete an online application form, providing personal and contact details, work/employment information, and educational background. Applicants must also select their preferred working group and answer program-related questions. The application requires a CV and a link to a short video (up to 3 minutes) introducing the applicant and their motivation for participating.

Required documents:

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

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue builds upon a long history of collaboration between Germany and Italy. Both nations are founding members of the European Union and have played pivotal roles in shaping the EU's policies and direction. However, challenges remain in areas such as economic coordination, migration management, and security cooperation. This dialogue provides a platform for young leaders to address these challenges and explore new avenues for collaboration in a rapidly changing world. The Spinelli Forum, named after Altiero Spinelli, one of the founding fathers of European federalism, underscores the program's commitment to promoting deeper European integration.

Analytical Viewpoint: Addressing the Generational Gap in EU Leadership

Professor Marco Rossi, a political science expert at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI), highlights the importance of engaging younger generations in shaping the future of the EU. "Europe faces a generational gap in leadership, with many key decision-makers nearing retirement," he explains. "Programs like the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue are essential for nurturing the next generation of European leaders and ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping the EU's policies and priorities."

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)

Deadline

The application deadline is July 25, 2025.

Apply Now