The World Trade Organization (WTO) is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Young Trade Leaders Programme. This initiative is designed to cultivate a more comprehensive understanding of the World Trade Organization’s operations and international trade among young individuals, as well as to establish a global network of Young Trade Leaders.
To learn more about the eligibility criteria, benefits and method of application for the 2026 World Trade Organization (WTO) Young Trade Leaders Programme, kindly keep reading!
Also see: 2026 Sahara Group Graduate Management Programmes
Quick Summary of 2026 World Trade Organization (WTO) Young Trade Leaders Programme
| Host | World Trade Organization (WTO) |
| Category | Training |
| Type | Graduate Trainee |
| Title | 2026 World Trade Organization (WTO) Young Trade Leaders Programme |
| Country | Worldwide |
| Benefits | Gain a greater understanding of the workings of the WTO and international trade |
| Application End Date: | 1 May 2026 |
About the Young Trade Leaders Programme
The Young Trade Leaders Programme was established in 2024 with the purpose of bringing young people and the World Trade Organization (WTO) closer together.
Candidates who are chosen to be “Young Trade Leaders” will be extraordinary young people who have demonstrated a strong knowledge of how trade can be beneficial to both people and the world.
They will bring fresh viewpoints and thoughts on the function of trade and the World Trade Organization (WTO), and they will also have the opportunity to gain knowledge about the work that the organization does and to contribute to the advancement of its purpose.
Eligibility requirements
Applicants must be:
- Between the ages of 18 and 28 on the closing date for applications, with a strong interest in international trade
- A citizen of a WTO member
- Neither currently affiliated with the WTO, nor have a relative who is currently WTO-affiliated
- Able to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English – knowledge of a second WTO working language (French or Spanish) is an asset
- Attuned to the need for diplomacy, show a willingness to respect diverse perspectives, willing to foster understanding of trade issues and promote constructive dialogue
- Committed to participate fully throughout the one-year programme (July 2026-June 2027).
Benefits of the Young Trade Leaders Programme
Selected Young Trade Leaders have the opportunity to:
- Gain a greater understanding of the workings of the WTO and international trade
- Publish articles, blogs, podcasts and social media content on trade-related topics
- Attend an in-person one-day training programme at the WTO in Geneva
- Contribute to and/or coordinate a session at the Public Forum 2026
- Benefit from existing WTO training programmes
- Benefit from WTO Secretariat advice and mentoring
- Receive support when organizing WTO-related activities in their home countries.
Application Timeline
- Young Trade Leaders are selected for one year.
- Short-listed candidates will be invited to take part in an interview in May 2026.
- The start date for successful candidates is 1 July 2026.
- The deadline for applications is 1 May 2026 (23.59 CET).
How to apply
Candidates should submit their application by filling out the online application form and uploading the relevant documentation.
Applications must include the following:
- CV (no more than two pages)
- 2-minute video in which the candidate briefly introduces themselves, expresses their interest in the programme and explains the impact they hope to have as a Young Trade Leader
- a written contribution (max. 300 words) answering one of the following questions (select only one):
- How can trade better serve the next generation?
- What role should young people play in shaping the future of trade?
Click on the application button below to start your application online.
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