World Youth Forum 2026 in Portugal Offers Fully and Partially Funded Opportunities

Porto, Portugal – The Centre for Diplomatic Advancement is set to host the World Youth Forum (WYF) in Porto, Portugal from February 19th to 22nd, 2026. The forum aims to bring together approximately 250 young leaders, students, healthcare professionals, lawyers, and activists from around the globe to engage in discussions on pressing global issues, develop practical solutions, and foster international collaboration.

Applications are currently being accepted, with seats divided into three categories: 50 fully funded, 100 partially funded, and 100 for forum access only. The deadline for applications is November 20th, 2025.

Forum Details and Funding Breakdown

The World Youth Forum 2026 promises to be a significant event for young individuals passionate about global change. The forum's organizers aim to create a platform for dialogue and action, addressing some of the world's most critical challenges.

Funding Categories:

Fully Funded: This category covers airfare, accommodation, conference access, meals during the conference, and merchandise. Partially Funded: This covers accommodation, conference access, meals during the conference, and merchandise. Forum Access Only: This category provides access to the forum only. Participants are responsible for all other expenses. Self-Funded: For those who do not receive a scholarship, this allows participation by covering all expenses themselves.

Applicants can also request an invitation letter to support their visa application process.

Objectives and Themes of the Forum

The WYF Portugal has a clear set of objectives aimed at empowering young people and fostering global cooperation:

Promote Youth & Civic Activism Enhance Capacity Building Foster Social Innovation Cultivate Global Collaboration Inspire Sustainable Action

The program will focus on several key themes:

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Youth Entrepreneurship & Innovation Digital Transformation & Future Technologies Climate Action & Environmental Stewardship Global Citizenship & Intercultural Dialogue AI Usage & Policy Blockchain Education from an Early Age

Eligibility Criteria

The World Youth Forum 2026 is open to applicants from all countries, representing diverse academic fields and backgrounds. To be eligible, applicants must:

Be between 18 and 45 years old. Demonstrate a keen interest in volunteerism, community service, international relations, diplomacy, or educational fields. Possess leadership potential and the ability to collaborate effectively in diverse groups.

Application Process

Interested individuals must complete an online application, providing all required details and a personal statement for those seeking a fully funded scholarship. A $17 application fee is required for consideration.

The application link is available on the official World Youth Forum website. (Note: This article will not provide the actual link.)

Expert Perspective on Youth Forums and Global Development

Dr. Anya Sharma, a professor of International Development at the University of Lisbon, emphasizes the critical role of youth forums in addressing global challenges. "These forums provide invaluable opportunities for young people to connect, share ideas, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems," she explains. "By fostering collaboration and empowering young leaders, we can accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a more just and sustainable world."

Dr. Sharma also notes that the focus on digital transformation and emerging technologies like AI and blockchain is particularly relevant. "Young people are digital natives, and they possess the skills and insights needed to harness these technologies for social good," she adds. "By providing them with the knowledge and resources to leverage these tools, we can unlock their potential to drive positive change."

Historical Context: The Evolution of Youth Engagement in Global Affairs

The concept of youth forums and international youth engagement has evolved significantly over the past century. Early initiatives focused primarily on cultural exchange and promoting international understanding. However, in recent decades, there has been a growing recognition of the crucial role that young people play in addressing global challenges, from climate change to poverty and inequality.

Organizations like the United Nations have increasingly emphasized the importance of youth participation in decision-making processes. The UN's Sustainable Development Goals explicitly recognize the need to engage young people in achieving a more sustainable and equitable future. Forums like the World Youth Forum in Portugal represent a vital platform for translating this recognition into concrete action, providing young people with the opportunity to contribute their ideas, skills, and energy to solving the world's most pressing problems.

Disclaimer

This program requires an application fee to be considered for the scholarship category. Opportunities Corners is not responsible for any losses or damages related to the application fee.