— Global Diplomatic Forum —
Strengthening
diplomacy
worldwide
An independent, non-profit organisation bringing together emerging and established diplomats, policymakers, and international leaders from over 150 countries — through world-class training, global summits, and a community built for the future of diplomacy.
2,000+
YDF Alumni Worldwide
175+
Countries
28
Premium Courses
6+
World Leading Global Events A Year
Who We Are
A platform for the next generation of global leadership
The Global Diplomatic Forum is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening diplomacy through dialogue, learning, and collaboration. We bring together emerging and established diplomats, policymakers, and international leaders to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build meaningful connections.
At GDF, we believe diplomacy is most effective when generations work together — combining the insight of experience with the creativity of new perspectives. Every GDF programme follows the GDF Standard: a framework ensuring high-quality learning, real-world relevance, and measurable impact.
- Widening the engagement of diverse stakeholders in global affairs
- Providing insight and enhancing understanding of key challenges in international affairs
- Engaging youth in dialogue around the issues shaping our world
- Building a lasting global network of diplomats across 150+ countries
Our Programmes
Where diplomacy comes to life
From immersive summits and flagship forums to online courses and a global membership network — GDF's programmes represent the full spectrum of diplomatic learning and connection.
Upcoming Events
Join us in 2026
Flagship events and forums taking place across the globe — in-person, virtual, and hybrid.
26–27 March 2026
Date TBC -Sept 2026
CAREER IN INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS - 12TH EDITION
Regents University London - In Person or Virtual
Date TBC -June 2026
YOUNG DIPLOMATS FORUM - 23RD EDITION - BRUSSELS
In Person 5 day Event
YOUNG DIPLOMATS FORUM - 24TH EDITION - LONDON
In Person 5 day Event
Date TBC -July 2026
YOUNG DIPLOMATS FORUM - 25TH EDITION - BEIJING
In Person 5 day Event
GDF Academy
Accelerate your career with premium online courses
Self-paced online courses built for practitioners and aspiring professionals. Available in four languages, curated into focused pathways that save up to 25% versus individual enrolment.
4.8 / 5
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Average Course Rating · 96% rate GDF "Excellent"
Courses starting 23rd February
Health Diplomacy
UK Foreign Policy and Diplomacy
Artificial Intelligence and Diplomacy
Cultural Diplomacy and Soft Power
Strategic Foreign Policy Development
Diplomacy in the Middle East & N Africa
New Course Starting Feb
Critical Minerals, Energy & The New Geopolitics of Resources Course
Latest Thinking
From the GDF community
Armed Peace: The Middle East in 2026 and the Limits of Conflict Management. Read now
Why the Next Generation of Diplomats Must Be Entrepreneurs of Peace. Read on Linkedin
The Podium and the Algorithm: Media Exposure in Contemporary Diplomacy. Read the full article on Linkedin
The Disaster Diplomat: Crisis Management as Core Diplomatic Competency. Read the full article on Linkedin
The Reputation Paradox: When Soft Power Meets Hard Reality. Read the full article on Linkedin
Silent Power: How Diplomatic Reports Shape Global Decisions. Read on Linkedin
Join the Forum
Ready to shape the future of diplomacy?
Whether you're a student taking your first steps into international affairs or an experienced practitioner looking to deepen your network — GDF has a programme for you.