17th South China Sea International Conference (2025)

The International South China Sea Conference, hosted annually by the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam (DAV), is one of the leading regional forums on maritime security. It brings together renowned scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss geopolitics, maritime cooperation, and regional security challenges.

As part of this year’s conference, the Young Leaders Programme provides an exclusive platform for emerging leaders to actively engage with maritime issues and showcase their innovative ideas for a more peaceful and cooperative future in the South China Sea.

 About the Young Leaders Programme

The programme is designed to:

• Equip youth with the skills and knowledge to address maritime challenges.
• Provide opportunities to share bold ideas and research.
• Build intergenerational connections with senior policymakers, diplomats, and global scholars.

Selected participants will:

• Take part in youth-led sessions such as livestream commentaries, podcasts, and a Youth Academic Discussion Night with DAV Captains and Vietnamese university students.
• Participate in the highlight session “Youth Power: Overcoming Ambiguity, Strengthening Unity”, presenting research under the mentorship of senior researchers.
• Join exclusive networking opportunities, including a working lunch with experts and an intergenerational dialogue with policymakers and scholars.

 Who Can Apply?

• Applicants aged 20–35 (as of programme start).
• Must be fluent in English.
• Should have a background in political science, international relations, international law, or social sciences.
• Eight (8) Young Leaders will be selected to attend the conference.

 Benefits for Selected Young Leaders

• Full participation in the 17th South China Sea International Conference.
• Networking with global scholars from top think tanks and universities.
• Certificate of Attendance from the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam.
• Membership in the Young Leaders Alumni Network of the South China Sea Conference.

 Sponsorship

The organisers will provide:

• Round-trip economy airfare
• 3-night accommodation (Nov 2–4, 2025)
• Local transportation and meals

This ensures the programme is fully funded, removing financial barriers for participants.

 Application Process

• Fill in the official application form: Apply Here
• Deadline: 23:59, 18 September 2025 (GMT+7). Late applications will not be accepted.
• Results will be announced via email within two weeks or more after the deadline. Please refrain from contacting organisers for results directly.

 Why Apply?

The Young Leaders Programme is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to:

• Gain first-hand exposure to debates shaping the future of the South China Sea.
• Build leadership skills in diplomacy, maritime governance, and regional cooperation.
• Join a global youth network committed to peace and sustainable maritime security.

Be part of the next generation of leaders making an impact on the future of the South China Sea!