The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Youth Forum 2025 will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 20 to 23 October 2025, alongside the 16th UNCTAD Ministerial Conference. With the theme “Shaping the Future: Driving Economic Transformation for Equitable, Inclusive and Sustainable Development,” this highly anticipated event will bring together youth leaders, students, and professionals from around the world to address pressing global challenges in trade, business, and sustainable development.
If you are between 18 and 30 years old and passionate about global trade, innovation, and economic transformation, this is your chance to contribute your voice at an international platform hosted by the United Nations.
Quick Summary of the Forum
- Host Organization: United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
- Event Dates: 20 – 23 October 2025
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Theme: Shaping the Future – Economic Transformation for Inclusive & Sustainable Growth
- Target Group: Students & young professionals (18–30 years)
- Eligible Regions: Open to applicants worldwide
- Language of Program: English
- Funding Type: Self-funded (participants cover travel & accommodation)
- Application Mode: Online with video submission
- Deadline: Rolling basis (First-come, first-served)
About the UNCTAD Youth Forum 2025
The 5th UNCTAD Youth Forum will gather young innovators and changemakers to exchange ideas, showcase projects, and strengthen youth participation in shaping the global trade and development agenda. The forum offers a unique platform to interact with policymakers, industry experts, and youth leaders who are working toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Objectives of the Forum
- Facilitate global exchange of ideas and build a strong youth leadership network.
- Encourage dialogue between youth and international stakeholders on sustainable development.
- Provide visibility to youth-led initiatives and innovative projects.
- Strengthen the role of young leaders in driving inclusive and equitable economic growth.
Key Details at a Glance
- Organizer: UNCTAD – United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
- Forum Dates: 20 – 23 October 2025
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Application Deadline: Rolling (seats are limited, first-come-first-served)
- Funding Type: Self-funded (participants pay for their travel & stay)
- Eligibility: All nationalities, male and female
- Target Group: Students & young professionals aged 18–30
- Focus Areas: Trade, economic transformation, sustainability, inclusive development
- Program Duration: 4 days
- Program Language: English
Benefits of Participation
By joining the UNCTAD Youth Forum 2025, participants will:
- Gain direct exposure to global policymakers and experts in trade and sustainable development.
- Share ideas, highlight youth-led projects, and influence international decision-making.
- Build meaningful connections with a global network of peers and leaders.
- Increase visibility for personal and professional initiatives in the areas of trade, business, and sustainability.
Note: This is a self-funded opportunity. Participants are responsible for covering travel, accommodation, and personal expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be aged 18–30 years old at the time of application.
- Demonstrate fluency in written and spoken English.
- Have relevant academic or professional background in trade, development, or sustainability.
- Submit a 2-minute motivation video (MP4 format) explaining why they wish to participate.
- Complete the official application form and await confirmation through an invitation link from UNCTAD.
How to Apply
- Create a 2-minute video (MP4) outlining your motivation for joining the forum.
- Upload the video to YouTube (Unlisted) or Vimeo.
- Fill in the official online application form and include your video link.
- Submit your application as early as possible since spots are limited and reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Further details are available on the official website of the UNCTAD.
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