Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP) & UNITAR Global Youth Summit for Change 2026 in Switzerland
Conference in Environment , in Peace Building ShortlistOpportunity Details
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Opportunity ID 288480
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Degree Non Degree Program/Certificate
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Opportunity Type : Fully Funded Partially Funded Self Funded
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Gender Male Female
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Language of Instruction English
Opportunity Description
Are you an emerging professional or social entrepreneur passionate about driving innovative solutions for peace and sustainability? Do you want to build your advocacy skills and gain exclusive access to the heart of international diplomacy? The Global Youth Summit for Change (GYSC), hosted by the Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP) in partnership with UNITAR, is currently accepting registrations for its 2026 cohort in Geneva, Switzerland.
Scheduled to take place in-person from August 27 to August 30, 2026, this four-day summit goes beyond a standard conference. It brings together over 100 young changemakers, activists, and policymakers to develop concrete action plans. Most notably, participants will receive an official Certificate of Participation co-issued by YCDP and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), alongside exclusive admission to a UN Geneva opening session and guided tour.
If you are ready to expand your global network, collaborate with world leaders, and present your ideas on an international stage, read on to review the available participation packages, verify your eligibility, and secure your spot before the August 26 deadline.
Quick Overview
| Provider | Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP) & UNITAR |
| Country / Location | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Program Type | Summit / Conference |
| Study Level | Open to youth 18-35 |
| Funding | Self-Funded (Packages from 799 CHF to 1399 CHF) |
| Number of Awards | 100+ Participants |
| Open To | All Nationalities |
| Deadline | 26 August 2026 |
Important Dates
Timeline Note: The application deadline is just one day prior to the event’s start date. If you require a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland, you must apply as early as possible to ensure your travel logistics are arranged.
| Application Deadline | 26 August 2026 |
| Summit Start Date | 27 August 2026 |
| Summit End Date | 30 August 2026 |
Participation Packages & Costs
This is a fee-based program. To attend, you must purchase one of the two following participation packages. Please note that international airfare and visa fees are not included in either package.
1. Full Experience Package — 1399 CHF
- Accommodation: 3 nights in a 4-star premium hotel (gender-specific shared rooms).
- Meals: Daily buffet breakfast included for 3 days.
- Transport: Complimentary public transport pass for Geneva during your stay.
- Access: Full summit admission, including the UN Geneva opening and guided tour.
- Recognition: Official Invitation Letter (for visas), a speaking opportunity on a global stage, and a Certificate of Participation co-issued by YCDP and UNITAR.
- Extras: Exclusive summit merchandise and a farewell closing dinner.
2. Summit Access Package — 799 CHF
- Access: Full summit admission, including the UN Geneva opening and guided tour.
- Recognition: Official Invitation Letter, a speaking opportunity, and a Certificate of Participation co-issued by YCDP and UNITAR.
- Extras: Exclusive summit merchandise and the farewell closing dinner.
Note: This package does NOT include hotel accommodation, breakfast, or local transport. It is ideal for local participants or those arranging their own stay.
Focus Areas of the Summit
During the interactive workshops, expert panels, and keynote sessions, you will co-create solutions across the following themes:
- Climate Action & Sustainability: Youth-led initiatives for renewable energy and environmental advocacy.
- Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution: Promoting dialogue and collaborative approaches to address conflicts.
- Digital Innovation & Social Entrepreneurship: Utilizing technology to create scalable solutions for social challenges.
- Human Rights & Social Justice: Advancing equality, dignity, and justice through community-based initiatives.
- Global Governance & Policy Advocacy: Influencing decision-making processes at global levels.
- Career Development & Employability: Preparing for future careers through mentorship, skills-building, and access to professional networks.
Eligibility Requirements
To join the summit in Geneva, you must meet the following criteria:
Age & Profile Requirements
- You must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Open to young policymakers, activists, members of civil society, NGO representatives, students, researchers, and social entrepreneurs.
Commitment to Social Change
You must demonstrate a passion for positive change, global collaboration, and developing innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Financial Requirements
You must be able to fund your selected participation package (799 CHF or 1399 CHF) as well as your flights and visa fees.
How to Apply
If you are prepared to secure your package and join the summit, follow these steps:
- Visit the official registration portal via the link below.
- Complete the online application form with your personal and professional information.
- Select your preferred participation package (Full Experience or Summit Access).
- Submit your application. The evaluation team will assess your motivation, leadership potential, and diversity fit.
- If shortlisted, you will receive an official invitation letter via email to begin your visa process and finalize your package payment.
For more information please visit the YDC or UNITAR website
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this summit fully funded?
No, this is a fee-based program. Participants must cover their participation package (ranging from 799 CHF to 1399 CHF), as well as their international flights and visa application costs.
Will I get to visit the United Nations?
Yes! Both participation packages include admission to the UN Geneva opening session and an official guided tour of the UN facilities.
Do I receive a certificate?
Yes. All participants who complete the summit will receive an official Certificate of Participation co-issued by the Youth Center for Dialogue and Peace (YCDP) and UNITAR.
