International Youth Summit Pakistan (IYSP) 2026 | Partially Funded Youth Leadership Summit in Pakistan

Applications are now open for the International Youth Summit Pakistan (IYSP) 2026, Pakistan’s premier international youth diplomacy and leadership forum. Organized by the Centre for Regional Strategy & Global Affairs at the University of Lahore, the summit will bring together more than 100 young leaders, activists, entrepreneurs, academics, and changemakers from around the world.

The 4th edition of IYSP will take place from 27 November to 4 December 2026 in Lahore under the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: Youth, Strategy & the New World Order.” The program combines high-level policy discussions, leadership development, cultural exchange, and networking opportunities.

Summit Highlights

Participants will engage in discussions across five strategic pillars:

• Geopolitics and the Shifting World Order
• Regional Connectivity and Geo-Economics
• Governance, Security and Emerging Threats
• Strategic Technologies and Digital Governance
• Youth Leadership and Global Dialogue

Delegates will also contribute to the IYSP 2026 Communiqué, a youth-led policy document featuring recommendations for governments and international organizations.

Funding and Benefits

The summit is partially funded. Selected participants will receive:

• Accommodation during the program
• Local transportation
• Meals
• Cultural visits and excursions
• Access to conference sessions, workshops, and networking events
• Support letters for travel grant applications

Participants are generally responsible for their international travel expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old
• Have working proficiency in English
• Demonstrate interest in global affairs, diplomacy, policy, or youth leadership
• Be willing to engage in international dialogue and cross-cultural exchange
• Be from any nationality worldwide

The organizers also encourage strong participation from Global South countries and aim for at least 30% female representation.

Program Structure

The summit consists of:

• 2 Days of Conference Sessions
  • Expert talks
  • Plenary discussions
  • Workshops
  • Policy working groups
• 5 Days of Cultural and Educational Activities
  • City visits
  • Cultural immersion
  • Networking activities
  • Exploration of Pakistan’s heritage and society

This unique structure allows participants to combine policy dialogue with firsthand cultural experiences.

Why Apply?

IYSP 2026 offers a valuable platform for young leaders to engage with global challenges, develop policy recommendations, expand international networks, and experience Pakistan’s culture and hospitality. Since its launch in 2017, the summit has connected hundreds of delegates from more than 60 countries.

Opportunity Summary

• Host Country: Pakistan
• Location: Lahore
• Program Dates: 27 November – 4 December 2026
• Duration: 7 Days
• Funding: Partially Funded
• Eligible Applicants: Young Leaders Worldwide
• Age Requirement: 18–35 Years
• Language: English
• Organizer: CRSGA, University of Lahore