Engaging and involving young people in global migration governance is incredibly important, especially in these challenging times.

This year, youth will join governments, mayors, business leaders, and civil society stakeholders at the GFMD to discuss migration policy priorities and actions. The Migration Youth and Children Platform (MYCP) and IOM – UN Migration are organizing the 4th Migration Youth Forum as a preparatory space for the 14th GFMD Summit. The forum aims to ensure a strong and impactful youth presence at the Summit by exchanging priorities, recommendations, solutions, and best practices.

Scheduled for January 21, 2024, the Youth Forum will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, and online. Online capacity building workshops will be held throughout January. This platform will prepare young participants for the GFMD Summit, offering peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities.

The Youth Forum welcomes young people, including migrants, refugees, civil society representatives, researchers, entrepreneurs, decision makers, professionals, volunteers, activists, and leaders under 31 years old, committed to working with migrants. Diversity is a priority in terms of gender, age, background, culture, ethnicity, and geography.

Exceptional youth leaders are sought to attend the 4th Migration Youth Forum and the XIV GFMD Summit. Preference will be given to applicants with migrant, diaspora, or refugee status, and those experienced in engaging with migration and refugee issues.

Scholarships will be provided for a limited number of in-person participants to cover their trip to Geneva and stay during the Forum and the Summit. Support will also be given to candidates in raising funds for participation. Alternatively, self-funded or online participation options are available.

Introducing the 2nd Youth Leadership and Innovation Award for Migration in conjunction with the Migration Youth Forum. This award will highlight existing initiatives improving the lives of young people on the move. Finalists will receive mentorship, seed funding, and participation in the Youth Forum and GFMD process. Young entrepreneurs and leaders are encouraged to apply.

Please ensure you meet the Migration Youth Forum eligibility criteria before filling out the form:

Age Range: 18 to 30 years old
Language: Proficiency in English, Spanish, French, or Arabic
Commitment: Active participation during the Forum and/or GFMD Summit, along with preparatory and post-event activities
Application Process: Complete the online form by September 15, 23:59 CET
(For in-person attendees) Ability to Travel: Possess a valid passport, necessary travel documents, and possibly a visa
The application process will take approximately 1 hour to complete.

Scroll down and click on the official link below to apply