The Afghan Youth Representative to the United Nations (AYR-UN) 2025 is a prestigious year-long program designed to empower young Afghans to become influential voices on the global stage. Launched in 2018 by Afghans for Progressive Thinking (APT) with support from the Embassy of the Netherlands in Afghanistan, the initiative aligns with UN Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015), which highlights the role of youth in peace and security.

Benefits

• Represent Afghan youth at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and deliver a speech on key youth issues.
• Fully covered visa application fees for the United States and Schengen countries.
• Airfare from the candidate’s country of residence to the United States and Europe.
• Coverage for travel related to youth advocacy consultations and events in the US and Europe.

Note: The program does not cover additional costs (travel, transportation, or accommodation) for activities initiated independently by the participant.

Why Apply?

The selected Afghan Youth Representative will serve as an advocate for youth rights, particularly women’s rights, bringing forward challenges and solutions at both national and international levels. Through global platforms, including the United Nations, they will amplify Afghan youth perspectives, influence policymaking, and create opportunities for sustainable development.

Program Support & Sponsorship

Since its launch, the program has received strong international backing:

• 2019-2020: Supported by the German Embassy in Afghanistan
• 2021: Funded by the Norwegian Embassy in Kabul
• During the Republic: Strong support from UNAMA and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• 2025: Co-sponsored by the Civil Society Platform for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (CSPPS) under the Just Future Program

Application Process

📅 Applications Open: February 11, 2025

Application Deadline: March 10, 2025 (Deadline: 5:00 PM EST) Extended: March 20, 2025

🌍 Eligible Candidates:

Applicants with the following criteria can apply:

• Be living outside Afghanistan.
• Must possess a valid passport, residence permit, or any necessary travel documents for international travel.
• Be available to travel to Europe and the United States for up to 20 days between September and December 2025.
• Must be between 18 and 29 years old at the time of application.
• Proficiency in either Dari or Pashto is required, along with a basic understanding of the other language.
• Strong English language skills, both spoken and written, are essential.
• A minimum of two years of volunteer experience is required.
• Be actively involved in youth-related or civic initiatives.
• Be capable of teamwork, eager to engage with diverse youth perspectives, and skilled in cross-cultural and professional communication.
• Experience in managing official social media platforms and the ability to fulfill responsibilities outlined in the Terms of Reference are necessary.

The following candidates are not eligible for this opportunity:

• Individuals who have applied for immigrant visas (with unclear status), lottery visas, or have pending immigration cases.
• Those restricted from international travel due to visa or travel document limitations.
• Applicants who cannot fully commit to participating in the program.
• Current employees of APT.
• Candidates with an existing scholarship, fellowship, or full-time obligation that overlaps with the program’s travel dates.

📢 Selection Stages:

1. Application Review – A selection committee will assess all applications.
2. Interviews – Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
3. Finalist Selection – Three finalists will be chosen to compete in a speech round.
4. Final Decision – APT and its partners will select the Afghan Youth Representative based on leadership potential, performance, and knowledge of Afghanistan’s key issues.

Key Benefits

✅ Represent Afghan youth at the United Nations

✅ Advocate for peace, security, and youth empowerment

✅ Build leadership skills and engage in global policy discussions

✅ Expand your professional network with international diplomats and policymakers

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their applications once the process is open from February 11, to March 10, 2025.

Application Requirements

✅ Completed Application Form
📹 Submission of Two Videos (in English) via the application form or upload to YouTube, Google Drive, or OneDrive and share the link.
📩 Contact Details of Two References
🌍  Proof of Residency Outside Afghanistan
🛂Copy of Your Passport

Apply NOW

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young Afghans passionate about leadership, peacebuilding, and international advocacy. Apply and be the voice of Afghan youth on the world stage! 🌍✨

For More details, please visit the website of Afghan youth representative to UN by Afghan Progressive thinking (APT).