Applications are now open for the ASEF Capacity Building Program on Gender Equality and Women’s Participation 2026, a fully funded international training initiative that will take place in Kunming, China, from 7–9 September 2026.

Organized by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), the program seeks to strengthen the capacity of professionals, policymakers, civil society representatives, researchers, and advocates working to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment across Asia and Europe. The initiative aims to promote inclusive governance and sustainable development by equipping participants with practical knowledge, tools, and strategies to support women’s participation in leadership and decision-making processes.

The training is hosted by the Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Yunnan Province and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Program Overview

The three-day capacity-building program will bring together approximately 20 participants from Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) partner countries. Through interactive workshops, expert-led discussions, case studies, and peer-learning activities, participants will explore effective approaches to promoting gender equality across different sectors.

The program emphasizes practical learning and collaborative dialogue, enabling participants to exchange experiences, identify challenges, and develop solutions that can be applied within their own institutions and communities.

Program Objectives

The initiative aims to:

• Deepen understanding of social, institutional, and cultural barriers affecting women's participation and leadership.
• Strengthen skills in gender analysis and the use of gender-sensitive data.
• Introduce practical approaches to gender-responsive planning, budgeting, and monitoring.
• Promote the integration of gender equality into policies, programs, and organizational practices.
• Encourage knowledge exchange and collaboration between stakeholders from Asia and Europe.
• Support the development of actionable strategies to advance women's leadership and participation.

Not Eligible

• Independent consultants.
• Students without relevant professional experience.

Training Format

Participants will engage in:

• Interactive training sessions
• Practical workshops
• Group discussions
• Case study analysis
• Cross-regional peer learning activities
• Knowledge-sharing forums

The program adopts a highly participatory approach designed to encourage collaboration and practical application of learning outcomes.

Required Application Documents

Applicants are required to submit:

• A completed online application form
• An organizational endorsement or nomination letter

The endorsement letter must:

• Be written in English
• Be issued on official organizational letterhead or sent from an official organizational email address
• Explain how participation aligns with the organization's goals and ongoing activities

Why Apply?

The ASEF Capacity Building Program offers a unique opportunity for professionals and changemakers to enhance their expertise in gender equality while building valuable international connections. Participants will gain practical skills, exchange ideas with peers from across Asia and Europe, and become part of a growing network dedicated to advancing women's leadership and inclusive development.

The program also provides an opportunity to engage with leading practitioners, policymakers, and advocates while exploring innovative approaches to addressing gender-related challenges in diverse social and institutional contexts.

Key Details

• Program: ASEF Capacity Building on Gender Equality and Women’s Participation 2026
• Location: Kunming, China
• Dates: 7–9 September 2026
• Funding: Fully Funded
• Benefits: Airfare, accommodation, meals, and local transport
• Eligible Regions: Asia and Europe (ASEM Partner Countries)
• Application Deadline: 3 July 2026
• Organizer: Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF)

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 3 July 2026 (23:59 Singapore Time).

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply now.