The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum is an annual initiative of the President of the Council. It has evolved into a key platform where young people can contribute to policy discussions at the United Nations through their collective ideas, solutions and innovations.

It gathers hundreds of young people from around the world engaged in intergovernmental policy processes. The 8th Annual Forum will take place under the theme of ‘Youth: Empowered, Included and Equal’, with specific focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under review at the 2019 High Level Political Forum: 4(education), 8(decent jobs), 10(reducing inequalities), 13(climate action) and 16(peace), as well as the various means of implementing the 2030 Agenda.

As the main platform for youth to share their ideas at the global level, the Forum allows representatives of youth-led and youth-focused organizations and networks, youth advocates and other youth stakeholders to dialogue with Member States, and to explore ways and means of promoting youth development and engagement.

Participants take part in brainstorming sessions, interactive speaker panels and discussions with Member States on the annual ECOSOC/High-Level Political Forum themes. Other gatherings held in the framework of the Forum, including side events, encourage participants to further engage with one another on a wide range of topics.

Cost: There is NO financial support available from the UN or UN MGCY for the Youth Forum. Applicants are advised to source for funds from donor organisations, government agencies or crowdfunding.

Eligibility: 

1. Open to representatives of youth-led and youth-focused organisations and networks, youth advocates and other youth stakeholders;
2. Participation in the forum is by invitation where youth participants are selected by National Youth Councils, regional youth organisations, as well as youth-led and focused organisations and networks affiliated with the Major Group for Children and Youth (UN-MGCY) and the International Coordination Meeting of Youth Organisations (ICMYO).

Click here to apply