UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026: Fully Funded Applications Open in Korea
Applications are now open for the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026, a fully funded event in the Republic of Korea. This forum runs from 13 to 21 July 2026. The Republic of Korea hosts it through the Korea Heritage Service and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO. The theme is “World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change.” The application deadline is 15 March 2026 at 23:59 CET.
The forum builds skills and commitment among young professionals. It focuses on protecting natural and cultural World Heritage sites. Readers will learn about the event details, theme, who can apply, benefits, schedule, and how to submit an application.
What is the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026?
The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 is part of the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee. It also fits into the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme.
This event strengthens young professionals’ skills in protecting World Heritage sites. It highlights community participation, education, and youth roles in conservation.
Participants exchange ideas with local and international experts. They join presentations, discussions, group work, and site visits at Korean World Heritage properties.
At the end, they present a Youth Declaration to the World Heritage Committee. This shares their insights on youth-led change.
Theme: World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change
The theme guides the entire forum. It aims to boost young professionals’ understanding of World Heritage management.
Focus areas include community involvement, youth strategies, and education’s power. These elements support informed decisions, inclusive governance, and sustainable practices.
Key aspects of the theme:
- Community participation in site protection and management.
- Youth as leaders in conservation strategies.
- Education’s role in building awareness and skills.
- Inclusive governance for diverse voices.
- Sustainable management through learning and collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
Young professionals must meet clear requirements to apply. A bulleted list helps check fit quickly.
- Age: 23 to 32 years old (born between 1994 and 2003 inclusive).
- Professional profile: Work in education and teaching, World Heritage site management, research and innovation on World Heritage, or NGOs and community groups focused on World Heritage.
- Engagement: Proven involvement in World Heritage activities.
- Motivation: Strong interest in youth, communities, and education topics.
- Availability: Full time for the entire forum.
- Language: Good English skills, as the event uses English only.
Selection favors balance in geography, gender equality, diverse backgrounds, and potential for impact after the forum.
Benefits and Logistics
The forum covers all major costs for selected participants. They arrive on 12 July 2026 and depart on 21 or 22 July 2026.
Organizers help with visas and travel plans. Any stay extension after 21 July is at the participant’s expense, with advance notice.
| Covered Expense | Details |
|---|---|
| International travel | Economy class round-trip |
| Accommodation | Full stay during the forum |
| Local transportation | Within the Republic of Korea |
| Meals | All during the event |
| Visa fees | Where needed, with support |
This setup lets participants focus on learning without worry.
Provisional Programme
The schedule mixes talks, workshops, group tasks, and visits to Korean World Heritage sites. A table shows the flow by date.
| Date | Activities |
|---|---|
| 12 July 2026 | Arrival of participants |
| 13 July 2026 | Opening and introductions |
| 14-19 July 2026 | Thematic sessions, site visits, and group work |
| 18 July 2026 | Joint session with World Heritage Site Managers Forum |
| 19 July 2026 | Draft Youth Declaration |
| 20 July 2026 | Finalize and present Declaration |
| 21 July 2026 | Closing and departures |
Selected participants get the full detailed programme later.
How to Apply
Visit the official UNESCO webpage for full application details and to submit.
Deadline: 15 March 2026 at 23:59 CET
Email questions to [email protected].
Act soon to join this key event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the forum?
The deadline is 15 March 2026 at 23:59 CET, so submit your application soon via the official UNESCO webpage.
Who is eligible to apply?
You must be 23-32 years old with professional experience in World Heritage education, management, research, or NGOs, plus good English skills and availability for the full event.
What expenses does the forum cover?
It covers economy-class round-trip travel, accommodation, meals, local transport, and visa support, but extensions after 21 July are your cost.
How do I apply and get more details?
Visit the official UNESCO webpage at whc.unesco.org/en/news/2862/ to apply and find full details; email [email protected] for questions.