HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum 2025 Offers Fully Funded Opportunity in Iceland

Applications are now being accepted for the HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum 2025, a fully funded exchange program taking place in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025. The forum aims to bring together young leaders from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and Arctic regions to collaborate on solutions to address the impacts of climate change. The deadline for applications is August 12, 2025.

Bridging the Gap: HKH and Arctic Regions Unite Against Climate Change

The HKH and Arctic regions, both heavily impacted by climate change, face unique but interconnected challenges. The HKH region is warming at twice the global average, while the Arctic is warming nearly four times faster. This accelerated warming threatens communities, cultures, and ecosystems in both regions, making collaborative solutions essential.

The forum, organized by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Arctic Circle, provides a platform for young people from these regions to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and develop joint strategies for climate action. The program includes a year-long virtual session leading up to an in-person gathering in Reykjavik.

Financial Support and Eligibility

The program covers all major expenses for participants, including:

Return airfare tickets Accommodation Participation costs

To be eligible for the HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be between 19 and 35 years old. Be a citizen of an HKH or Arctic country. Be affiliated with a youth organization or program related to climate change or the environment. Demonstrate a clear interest in Arctic and/or HKH environmental and climate issues. Show leadership potential and be involved in volunteer work or climate-related activities. Be available for 4–7 hours per month for one year. Have a laptop and a good internet connection. Possess a passport valid for at least six months after October 2025.

Eligible Countries

The forum will select 12 participants from the following countries:

Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Countries:

Afghanistan Bangladesh Bhutan China India Myanmar Nepal Pakistan

Arctic Countries:

Canada Denmark (specifically Greenland) Finland Iceland Norway Russia (Russian Federation) Sweden United States (specifically Alaska)

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) Endorsement Letter Personal Statement Video Pitch Passport Scan

Interested candidates can apply online through the official website.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Youth Engagement in Climate Action

"Engaging youth in climate action is not just a matter of intergenerational equity; it's a strategic imperative," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a climate policy expert at the Institute for Sustainable Development. "Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a deep commitment to creating a sustainable future. Forums like the HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum are crucial for fostering collaboration and empowering the next generation of climate leaders."

Historical Context: The Evolution of International Youth Exchange Programs

International youth exchange programs have a long history, dating back to the post-World War II era when they were primarily focused on promoting peace and understanding between nations. Over time, these programs have evolved to address a wider range of global challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, and social justice. The HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum represents a new generation of exchange programs that are specifically designed to empower young people to become active agents of change in their communities and beyond.

Analytical Viewpoint: Addressing Climate Change Through Regional Collaboration

"Climate change is a global problem that requires local and regional solutions," explains Professor Ben Carter, an environmental scientist at the University of Arctic. "The HKH and Arctic regions, despite their geographical distance, share similar vulnerabilities to climate change. By fostering collaboration between young leaders from these regions, the forum can help to develop innovative and context-specific solutions that can be scaled up and replicated in other parts of the world."

The HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum 2025 presents a significant opportunity for young leaders to contribute to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The fully funded nature of the program ensures accessibility for participants from diverse backgrounds, fostering a truly inclusive and impactful exchange.