The GLOBSEC Young Leaders Forum 2026: Your Complete Guide to the Forum
The GLOBSEC Young Leaders Forum 2026 is officially open for applications, and if you’re a young professional passionate about global issues, this could be your ticket to some of the most influential rooms in Europe this year.
Launched back in 2013 (building on earlier transatlantic initiatives), the program has grown into a powerhouse platform for emerging leaders.
Now in its 13th edition, it brings together around 30–40 young talents each year, though past editions have seen hundreds of alumni from nearly 60 countries and over 160 institutions. The goal? To get you into high-level discussions on the challenges shaping Europe and the world, turning bold ideas into real action.
Description of the GLOBSEC Young Leaders Forum
This isn’t your typical conference. The Young Leaders Forum runs alongside the main GLOBSEC Forum 2026, happening 20–23 May 2026 in Prague, Czechia. You’ll dive deep into sessions tailored for early-career pros, engaging directly with policymakers, business leaders, academics, and innovators from government, the private sector, think tanks, and civil society.
Expect to tackle big topics like:
- Global security and defence
- EU policies and priorities
- Geopolitics and strategic partnerships
- Digital transformation, AI, and cybersecurity
- Economy, energy, and climate security
It’s a mix of skill-building workshops, strategic dialogues, networking with mentors and global figures, and chances to contribute your perspective. Past participants rave about the connections that last—joining a strong alumni network for ongoing collaboration long after Prague. Diversity is a big focus: previous cohorts had about 65% women, and they actively seek balance across geography, gender, and expertise.
Eligibility Criteria
If you’re aged 25–35 and already have some professional track record or clear expertise/interest in the themes above, you’re in the target group. Open to candidates from Europe, North and Latin America, North Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australia. English proficiency is a must, as everything happens in English. No need for decades of experience—just demonstrated passion and relevant background in security, policy, tech, economy, or related fields.
What You Get (and What It Costs)
Selected participants gain:
- Direct access to high-level discussions and global leaders
- Sharpened analytical and strategic skills
- A powerful professional network of peers and mentors
- Membership in the GLOBSEC Young Leaders alumni community
The forum itself doesn’t mention fees for participants (many such programs cover or subsidise selected young leaders), but check the official site for any travel or accommodation details—often, these events handle logistics for invitees.
The Application Process
Applications are live now via the official GLOBSEC form. The deadline is midnight CET on 6 March 2026—so you’ve got a tight window (early applications are encouraged since spots are limited and it’s competitive).
Head straight to the source:
In your application, highlight your experience, why these themes matter to you, and how you’d contribute to the conversations. Be clear and authentic—selection prioritises impact potential.
Why Apply Now to the GLOBSEC Young Leaders Forum?
In 2026, with Europe at a crossroads on defence, tech competitiveness, geopolitics, and climate, platforms like this matter more than ever. If you’re ready to step up, bring your voice, and build lasting connections in the heart of Europe, don’t sleep on this one. Prague in May, meaningful debates, and a community of change-makers—sounds like a pretty solid way to level up your impact. Apply soon, and who knows? You could be part of the next cohort shaping the future.
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