UNESCO’s flagship Youth for Peace: Intercultural Leadership Programme is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This prestigious programme selects 50 emerging leaders from around the world who are driving social cohesion, inclusion, and peace through intercultural dialogue — offering each a $10,000 seed grant plus intensive leadership development.
- Programme: Youth for Peace: UNESCO Intercultural Leadership Programme 2026 (2nd Edition)
- Organiser: UNESCO
- Grant: $10,000 USD seed funding for each selected leader’s community project
- Cohort Size: 50 young leaders selected worldwide
- Additional Benefits: Leadership development training, mentorship, global networking, engagement with international policy discussions
- Eligibility: Between 25 and 45 years old as of 22 October 2026; demonstrated leadership record; commitment to intercultural dialogue and social impact; openness to self-reflection and collaborative learning
- Deadline: 19 July 2026, 23:59 CET (Paris time)
- Notification: Selected cohort notified by mid-October 2026
- How to Apply: Online application form on the official UNESCO website at unesco.org
If you are an emerging leader working on peacebuilding, intercultural understanding, or community cohesion, this programme offers a unique combination of financial support, global visibility, and a network of like-minded leaders. Only 50 places are available worldwide — don’t miss the July 19 deadline.
Always verify deadlines and details on the official UNESCO website before applying.