Young Diplomats Forum
London 2026
26TH EDITION - LONDON
Young Diplomats Forum
21-25th Sept 2026
Young Diplomats Forum is an extensive week-long programme for young and aspiring diplomats under the age of 30. That 26th edition held in London, UK, 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, 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
Sessions with Ambassadors and Experts on Diplomacy in the 21st Century
Briefings at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the Houses of Parliament
Engagements with ambassadors, digital diplomacy experts, and UK policymakers
Policy development workshops and immersive skills sessions in negotiation and strategic diplomacy
Deep dives into critical issues such as:
The UK and the World, Diplomacy in the 21st Century, Trade and Economic Diplomacy, NATO and the Transatlantic Partnership, AI and the Future of Diplomacy, and Global Realignment and World Order
Exceptional networking with fellow participants shaping the future of diplomacy
London as a global hub for diplomacy, finance, and international affairs
Cultural visits and tours to historical sites and institutions, including Buckingham Palace
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
Our Policy Workshops: Practical Diplomacy in Action
On Day 5, your cross-national team presents a fully developed policy brief to the Forum. Peers from across the globe challenge your logic and recommendations. No judges. No grades. Real work under real pressure.
You write policy, not essays: A 2-3 page brief on AI governance, NATO, EU-US trade, UN reforms or climate diplomacy
Your team are strangers on Day 1: Cross-cultural consensus under time constraint
You defend it in the room: Live Q&A before an international audience
Alumni call it the most valuable element of the week: Ahead of every institutional visit
Our past 25 editions have taken place across the world, including Turkey, Greece, Croatia, Malaysia, USA, Brussels, Latvia, Mexico, China and London.
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.
20% Fee Waiver Scholarship for selected delegates who submit a video statement demonstrating: Deadline 20th July
Their leadership aspirations, Where do they want to lead?
How the YDF will contribute to those goals,
What specific skills or networks do they need?
What value they will add to the programme, What unique perspective or commitment will they bring?
Accommodation Suggestions
Find some recommendations on accommodations below
Edition: 26th Edition
Date: 21-15th September 2026
Location: London, UK
Application Deadline: 6th September
Fee: £995 ( Incl. lunches and transport)
Eligibility: Under 30
Certificate: GDF Certificate of Participation
Registered Charity No. 1149226
Companies House No. 07566163
4.9/5 Google Rating
2,500+ Alumni
YDF Gallery
Supporters
Where are they now? — Alumni stories
Hear the stories of some of our alumni. Read their stories here
Supporters
What past delegates actually said
Cultural Events During the Week
Delegates will climb up the 02
VIP Tour of the Houses of Parliament
Cable car trip across the Thames
Tour of Buckingham Palace
National Liberal Club
Delegates can enjoy adventure golf
Tour of Greenwich
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Young Diplomats Forum is organised by the Global Diplomatic Forum (GDF), a London-based non-profit organisation and UK registered charity. Since 2012, GDF has delivered programmes that engage diplomats, policymakers, academics and emerging leaders from around the world.
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The Young Diplomats Forum is an intensive international programme that combines institutional visits, policy workshops, diplomatic engagement and professional networking opportunities. The programme brings together young leaders from different countries who share an interest in diplomacy, international affairs and global challenges.
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Each edition reflects the diplomatic, political and cultural environment of its host city. While all editions share the same objective of developing future global leaders, institutional visits, speakers, policy themes and networking opportunities vary from one location to another.
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The programme is open to applicants aged 18 to 30 from all nationalities and academic backgrounds. It is particularly suitable for students, graduates, young professionals and aspiring leaders with an interest in international affairs.
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Applications are assessed based on the application form, CV and personal statement. Selection is based on motivation, leadership potential, interest in international affairs and the contribution applicants can make to the cohort.
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The Young Diplomats Forum receives applications from around the world for a limited number of places. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early application is encouraged.
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Delegates work in small international teams on a policy challenge related to a contemporary global issue. Throughout the week, teams develop recommendations and present their findings at the conclusion of the programme.
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A typical day may include institutional visits, discussions with policymakers or practitioners, policy workshops, networking activities and cultural engagement. The exact schedule varies by edition.
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The participation fee covers programme activities, institutional visits, workshops, networking events, lunches, refreshments and local programme-related transportation where applicable. Details for each edition are provided on the respective programme page.
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Accommodation arrangements vary between editions. Applicants should consult the specific programme page for details regarding what is included in the participation fee.
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A limited number of partial scholarships may be available for selected applicants. Scholarship opportunities, eligibility criteria and deadlines are announced on the programme page for each edition.
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Payment plans may be available for accepted participants. Delegates should contact the organising team after acceptance to discuss available options.
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Yes. The programme is conducted in English, and participants should be comfortable engaging in discussions, workshops and professional networking activities in English.
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Participants come from a wide range of academic, professional and cultural backgrounds. Cohorts typically include students, graduates, civil servants, researchers, entrepreneurs and young professionals from many countries.
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The Young Diplomats Forum alumni network includes more than 2,500 participants from over 150 countries. Alumni have pursued careers across diplomacy, government, international organisations, academia, business and civil society.
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The programme provides opportunities to engage with fellow delegates, diplomats, policymakers, academics and practitioners through institutional visits, workshops, receptions and informal networking activities.
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For accepted participants, the organising team can issue confirmation letters that may support visa applications. Visa decisions remain solely the responsibility of the relevant authorities, and participants are responsible for meeting all visa requirements.
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In many cases, yes. Given the diversity of the alumni network, we may be able to connect prospective participants with alumni from their country or region to discuss their experience of the programme.
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Prospective participants can learn more about delegate experiences through video testimonials, alumni stories, Google Reviews and other feedback shared by programme participants.
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Yes. The Global Diplomatic Forum regularly hosts online information sessions before each edition. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn more about the programme and ask questions directly to the organising team.
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The Young Diplomats Forum is designed for ambitious young leaders who are interested in international affairs, diplomacy, public policy and global cooperation. The programme aims to support participants in developing their understanding of global issues while building meaningful international networks.