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

Applications are now being accepted for the 5th Edition of the German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue, a fully funded program designed to foster collaboration and address critical issues 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 opportunity for young leaders from Germany and Italy to connect, exchange ideas, and contribute to shaping the future of Europe.

Program Overview and Key Dates

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 will commence with a virtual event on September 19, 2025. Participants will then engage in two online workshops scheduled for October 6 and October 21, 2025. The program culminates in a two-day, fully funded in-person conference in Berlin on October 27 and 28, 2025.

This initiative provides a platform for discussing challenges related to the EU's future and strengthening relations between Italy and Germany. Participants will also become part of a network of Italian and German young leaders from diverse backgrounds, including academia, politics, business, civil society, media, and the social sector.

Conference Themes and Working Groups

During the conference in Berlin, participants will delve into crucial aspects of the EU through four working groups:

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

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. Possess a strong interest in European cooperation, particularly in the fields of defence and security policy, economics, artificial intelligence, or climate and energy policy. Hold a first university degree (BA or MA) or equivalent qualification. Have an excellent command of the English language. Commit to participating in all virtual and in-person sessions.

Benefits of Participation

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue offers several benefits:

Free participation in both virtual and in-person sessions. Opportunity to attend virtual sessions from home. Fully funded in-person conference, including travel expenses and accommodation. Platform to share opinions, learn from diverse perspectives, and network with other young leaders.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply by completing the online application form. The application requires personal and contact details, work/employment information, educational background, preferred working group selection, and answers to program-related questions. Applicants must also upload their CV and a video (up to 3 minutes) introducing themselves and their motivation for participating. The video should be uploaded to an online platform and the link provided in the application.

Required Documents:

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

The application deadline is July 25, 2025.

Apply Now

Historical and Current Context

The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue builds upon a long history of cooperation between Germany and Italy, two of the European Union's founding members. Both nations have played pivotal roles in shaping the EU's trajectory, and their collaboration remains crucial for addressing contemporary challenges. Initiatives like the Spinelli Forum are essential for fostering dialogue and identifying innovative solutions to pressing issues such as economic disparities, security threats, climate change, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.

Expert Perspective

Dr. Anna Schmidt, a political science professor specializing in European integration at the University of Berlin, emphasizes the importance of such programs. "The German-Italian Young Leaders Dialogue is a vital platform for cultivating the next generation of European leaders," she states. "By bringing together talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, the program facilitates cross-cultural understanding and encourages collaborative problem-solving. In an era marked by complex global challenges, initiatives like this are crucial for strengthening the bonds between nations and fostering a shared vision for the future of Europe."

Moreover, according to Dr. Marco Rossi, a senior fellow at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI), "This dialogue is particularly relevant given the current geopolitical landscape. The EU faces numerous challenges, from internal divisions to external pressures. Programs like the Spinelli Forum can help to bridge divides, promote consensus-building, and strengthen the EU's capacity to act effectively on the global stage. By empowering young leaders to contribute their ideas and perspectives, we are investing in the future of European integration."

Host Organizations The program is supported 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)

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