The Global Diplomatic Forum is a registered UK charity (No. 1149226) and registered on Companies House (No. 07566163) — both of which are publicly searchable databases you can verify independently. We have held 24 editions of the Young Diplomats Forum across more than a dozen countries since our founding, and have a 4.9/5 rating on Google Reviews from past delegates. We understand that there are organisations in this space that don't deliver — we'd encourage you to do your research, read our reviews, and reach out to us directly with any questions before making any payment.

Past editions have taken place in Brussels, London, Malaysia, the USA, Turkey, Greece, Croatia, Latvia, and Mexico, among others. Institutional partners have included NATO, the European Parliament, the European Commission, the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, and the Houses of Parliament.

Yes. The institutional visits listed are confirmed elements of the programme, not aspirational. These are not public tours; they are organised specifically for YDF delegates and are not accessible to individuals. Past delegates frequently cite these visits as the highlight of their week.

The forum is open to aspiring diplomats and international affairs professionals under the age of 30. You do not need prior diplomatic experience — the programme is designed to develop that. What matters is a genuine interest in diplomacy and global affairs, and a commitment to engaging fully with the week. The programme is conducted entirely in English.

Delegates come from across the world — typically 90+ countries are represented across the cohort. You'll be in the room with university students, early-career professionals, and those already working in government, civil society, and international organisations. All nationalities are welcome.

The fee covers the full five-day programme including all sessions, workshops, and institutional visits; daily lunches and refreshment breaks; all in-programme transport; cultural and networking activities; and your GDF certificate of completion. It does not include flights or accommodation, which delegates arrange independently.

We accept payment by credit or debit card via our secure online payment page, or by bank transfer. Card payments are processed through a secure payment provider and carry standard consumer protections. If you have any concerns about the payment process, email us at ydf@gdforum.org before paying — we're happy to answer questions or speak with you directly.

Yes. We offer monthly instalments to make the fee more manageable. If you'd like to pay this way, simply reply to your acceptance email or contact us at ydf@gdforum.org and we'll arrange this for you.

There is no fixed payment deadline, but places are allocated on a rolling basis as payments are received. If you have been accepted and are considering attending, we'd encourage you to confirm your place as soon as you're ready - we cannot hold places indefinitely.

Our full terms and conditions, including the cancellation and refund policy, are available at gdforum.org/terms-and-conditions. If you have specific questions about your circumstances, please contact us at ydf@gdforum.org.

Submit your current CV and a personal statement explaining your interest in diplomacy and international affairs. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. If accepted, you'll receive a formal offer by email. Payment confirms and secures your place.

Yes. Applications are reviewed individually — we look for genuine motivation, relevant interests or experience, and the potential to contribute to and benefit from the programme. Not all applicants are accepted.

We aim to respond to all applications within a few working days. If you haven't heard back after a week, feel free to follow up at ydf@gdforum.org.

No — accommodation is arranged and paid for by delegates independently. Once accepted, we can share recommended options near the venue to make this easier.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the host country. It is your responsibility to check and arrange any visa required. We are happy to provide an official letter of acceptance to support a visa application — just request one after you've been accepted.

Yes, all sessions, workshops, and communications are conducted entirely in English.