WTO Young Trade Leaders Programme Applications Open for 2026
Summary
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has opened applications for its 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme. This initiative aims to engage young individuals interested in international trade, offering them training and networking opportunities.
What changed
The WTO is inviting applications for its 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme, an initiative designed to foster understanding of the WTO's work and international trade among young people aged 18-28. Selected candidates will serve for one year, beginning July 1, 2026, and will receive training, mentoring, and support for organizing WTO-related activities.
Interested individuals must submit applications by May 1, 2026. Short-listed candidates will be interviewed in May 2026. While the program offers valuable experience and opportunities, including travel to the WTO Public Forum in September 2026, it does not provide remuneration. This notice serves as an informational announcement for potential applicants.
What to do next
- Review eligibility criteria for the 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme.
- Submit applications by the deadline of May 1, 2026.
- Prepare for potential interviews in May 2026.
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Young Trade Leaders
WTO launches applications for 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme
The WTO is inviting applications for the 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme, an initiative aimed at fostering a better understanding of the WTO's work and international trade among young people and creating a network of Young Trade Leaders around the world.
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Young people between the ages of 18 and 28 with a strong interest in international trade are encouraged to apply. ?
About the Young Trade Leaders Programme
The Young Trade Leaders Programme was created in 2024 to establish a closer link between young people and the WTO. Candidates selected to be "Young Trade Leaders" will be exceptional young people who demonstrate a clear understanding of how trade can be of benefit to people and planet. They will bring new perspectives and ideas about the role of trade and the WTO, while also having the opportunity to learn about the organization's work and play a role in advancing its mission.
How to apply
Young Trade Leaders are selected for one year. For more details on the 2026 programme and information on how to apply, consult the information note.
The deadline for applications is 1 May 2026 (23.59 CET).
Short-listed candidates will be invited to take part in an interview in May 2026.
The start date for successful candidates is 1 July 2026.
Benefits
Selected leaders will have the opportunity to take advantage of training courses organized by the WTO, to benefit from WTO Secretariat advice and mentoring, and to receive support when organizing WTO-related activities in their home countries.
They will not receive remuneration, but they will be invited to travel to Geneva to participate in the 2026 WTO Public Forum in September.?
Additional information on the Programme is available here.
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