How can young people drive global change? How can their voices shape policies and programs for a better world? The ECOSOC Youth Forum 2025 provides a unique platform for young leaders to engage with policymakers, government representatives, and key stakeholders in discussions aimed at accelerating progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The three-day forum, taking place from April 15 to 17, 2025, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, will focus on advancing sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based solutions for global challenges. Discussions will highlight key SDGs under review at the 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), including good health and well-being (SDG 3), gender equality (SDG 5), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), life below water (SDG 14), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17).

The forum, organized by the President of ECOSOC, UN DESA, and the UN Youth Office with support from youth networks and organizations, will feature plenary sessions, thematic breakouts, and regional discussions. Participants will share best practices, propose solutions, and contribute to key global development agendas, including the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development and the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2).

Important Details

• Side Event Registration Deadline: February 28, 2025
• Event Dates: April 15–17, 2025
• Location: United Nations Headquarters, New York
• Program Mode: Hybrid: In-person and Virtual
• Organizers: President of ECOSOC, UN DESA, UN Youth Office, IANYD, MGCY, and ICMYO
• Eligible Countries: All countries
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female/Non-binary
• Target Group: Youth leaders, youth delegates, policymakers, government representatives, civil society, and private sector stakeholders
• Focus Areas: Sustainable development, youth leadership, policy advocacy, innovation, economic and social development
• Duration: 3 days
• Program Language: English

Why to apply?

Participants will:

• Engage in high-level discussions with government representatives, UN agencies, and policymakers.
• Opportunity to present ideas and solutions on global issues aligned with the 2030 Agenda
• Network with international youth leaders and organizations
• Access to thematic and regional breakout sessions focused on key SDGs
• Potential to contribute to major intergovernmental processes such as the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development and WSSD2
• Side event participation opportunities to showcase initiatives, research, and projects
• Hybrid format allowing both in-person and virtual participation

Who Can Apply?

The following categories of people can apply for this opportunity:

• Application is open to youth leaders, policymakers, researchers, civil society representatives, and private sector stakeholders worldwide.
• There are no age restrictions, but participants should have a strong interest in sustainable development and policy advocacy.
• Participants must be available to participate in the forum (April 15–17, 2025)
• Those interested in hosting side events must register by February 28, 2025

How to Apply for the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023?

Interested applicants stay updated on the official ECOSOC Youth Forum website for registration details.

For further information about the ECOSOC Youth Forum, please visit the ECOSOC website.

Also, take advantage of the following opportunities:

DAAD Scholarship for PhD in International Development Studies, Germany

Pernod Ricard Scholarship to Attend One Young World Summit in Germany

Italy 100 Scholarships for Refugee Students with International Protection

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