Young Diplomats
Forum -Brussels 2026
24TH EDITION - BRUSSELS 2026
Young Diplomats Forum
13-17th July 2026
Young Diplomats Forum is an extensive week-long programme for young and aspiring diplomats under the age of 30. That 24th edition held in Brussels, Belgium contains practical sessions, workshops, policy exercises and institutional visits which will be presented by global experts.
The programme focuses on enhancing and developing a new generation of diplomatic leaders. During the week, participants will have access to opportunities and tools to engage with global senior diplomats, expand their networks and involve key stakeholders at a crucial time in their careers.
The proceedings of the forum engage young diplomats with Ambassadors, MPs, MEPs, Government officials, media and diplomacy experts on different issues of global affairs. In addition, the Young Diplomats Forum is a cultural and entertaining experience that create international friendship amongst participants and engage with institutions in the host country and connect with the place.
Highlights of the Programme
A Session with Ambassadors and Expert on Diplomacy in the 21st Century
Briefings at the European Commission, European Parliament, Council of the EU, Committee of the region and Committee of Economic and Social Affairs and NATO Headquarters
Engagements with ambassadors, digital diplomacy experts, and EU policymakers
Policy development workshops and Immersive skills sessions in negotiation, , and strategic diplomacy
Deep dives into critical issues such as:
EU and the World , Diplomacy in the 21st Century, Trade and Economic Diplomacy, NATO’s and Transatlantic partnership, AI and the future of diplomacy and EU-China relations and global realignment
Exceptional networking with fellow participants shaping the future of diplomacy
Flanders as efficient regional diplomacy model
Cultural visits and tours to historical sites and institutions
How to Apply
Delegates need to submit their current CV as well as a personal statement, that tells us about your leadership aspirations in the field of diplomacy and international affairs. For any questions about the application process, you can email us at ydf@gdforum.org
Live Info Sessions Series
Join us for a series of live webinars designed to introduce you to the Young Diplomats Forum (YDF) experience. Whether you're exploring a future in international relations, diplomacy, or global leadership, this is your opportunity to gain first-hand insights and have your questions answered.
14th May -2pm
10th June - 2pm
29th -July - 2pm
Participation Fees
The delegate fees includes the programme, lunches, refreshment breaks, travel during the programme and all activities. The fee does not include flights or accommodation. The fees are £995. Delegates are able to pay in monthly instalments.
Scholarships available that can cover part of the fees. Applications for scholarships but be submitted by the 17th of May.
25% discount for participants who are accepted and confirm their places by the 31st of May.
Our Rating
Our past 23 editions have taken place across the world, including Turkey, Greece, Croatia, Malaysia, USA, Brussels, Latvia, Mexico, London and our Google reviews are 4.9/5.
Registered Charity No. 1149226
Companies House No. 07566163
4.9/5 Google Rating
2,500+ Alumni · 175 Countries
Look at past events
Supporters
YDF Gallery
Ready to apply? Deadline is 20 June 2026.
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis — the earlier you apply, the stronger your position.
Where are they now? — Alumni stories
Hear the stories of some of our alumni. Read their stories here
World's Leading Event
World's Leading Event
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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No — accommodation is arranged and paid for by delegates independently. Once accepted, we can share recommended options near the venue to make this easier.
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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.
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Yes, all sessions, workshops, and communications are conducted entirely in English.