Overview
Applications are now open for the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026, a fully funded international programme organized within the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme.
Hosted by the Republic of Korea through the Korea Heritage Service (KHS) and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (KNCU), the forum will take place from 13–21 July 2026 alongside the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee.
Under the theme “World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change,” the programme will bring together 30 young professionals from around the world to strengthen their knowledge, skills, and engagement in the protection and management of natural and cultural World Heritage sites.
Forum Theme and Objectives
The 2026 forum focuses on the relationship between World Heritage, communities, and education, with the goal of empowering youth to play an active role in heritage conservation and governance.
Key objectives include:
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Strengthening the commitment and professional capacity of young practitioners working in heritage-related fields
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Exploring how community participation can improve conservation and management practices
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Examining the role of education, research, and learning in informed decision-making
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Promoting youth leadership and inclusive governance in World Heritage protection
Through exchanges with local and international experts, participants will engage in collaborative learning and develop practical perspectives on sustainable heritage management.
Programme Structure
The forum combines academic discussions with practical, site-based learning experiences at World Heritage properties in the Republic of Korea. Activities include:
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Thematic presentations and expert-led discussions
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Collaborative workshops and group work
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Site visits and field-based learning
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Peer exchange with international participants
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Joint session with the World Heritage Site Managers Forum
At the conclusion of the programme, participants will collectively prepare and present a Youth Declaration to the 48th Session of the World Heritage Committee.
Provisional Schedule
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12 July 2026: Arrival of participants
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13 July 2026: Opening of the forum and introductions
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14–19 July 2026: Thematic sessions, workshops, and site-based learning
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18 July 2026: Joint session with the World Heritage Site Managers Forum
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19 July 2026: Drafting of the Youth Declaration
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20 July 2026: Finalisation and presentation of the Youth Declaration
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21 July 2026: Closing session and departure
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Age
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Between 23 and 32 years old (born between 1994 and 2003 inclusive)
Professional Profile
Applicants should be young professionals or practitioners engaged in one or more of the following areas:
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Education and teaching in formal learning settings
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World Heritage site management
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Research and innovation related to World Heritage
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NGOs or community-level associations focused on heritage
Additional Requirements
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Demonstrated involvement in World Heritage-related activities
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Strong motivation to contribute to discussions on youth, communities, and education
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Full availability for the entire duration of the forum
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Proficiency in English (the working language of the programme)
Selection Considerations
The selection process aims to ensure:
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Balanced geographical representation
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Gender equality
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Diversity of professional backgrounds
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Potential for knowledge-sharing and impact after the forum
Funding and Benefits
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 is fully funded. Selected participants will receive:
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International economy-class travel
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Accommodation
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Local transportation
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Meals during the programme
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Visa support and related fees where applicable
Participants wishing to extend their stay after the programme must cover additional expenses independently.
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply through the official online application form:
Application Link: https://unesco-2023.limesurvey.net/662537
Application Deadline: 15 March 2026 (23:59 CET)
Important notes:
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Only complete applications submitted through the online form will be considered
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Selection is based solely on the information provided in the application
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Recommendations or endorsements are not required
Selected applicants will be notified via email.
Contact Information
For questions regarding the application process:
Email: For any questions, kindly contact: wh-ypf@unesco.org
Why You Should Apply
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is a flagship initiative of UNESCO’s World Heritage Education Programme. It offers young professionals a unique opportunity to:
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Build international networks with peers and experts
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Gain practical experience through site-based learning
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Deepen understanding of the World Heritage Convention
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Contribute directly to global discussions on heritage conservation
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Strengthen leadership skills in community-based and sustainable heritage management
For professionals working at the intersection of heritage, education, and community engagement, the forum provides both international exposure and long-term professional value.
Call for Applications
Selection of participants will be carried out solely on the basis of the online applications, in accordance with the criteria specified in the Call for Applications. Recommendations, nominations, or endorsements will therefore not be considered.
Online application
Applications must be submitted through the online application form by 15 March 2026 at 23:59 CET
Application Link: https://unesco-2023.limesurvey.net/662537
For any questions, kindly contact: wh-ypf@unesco.org
For more info please visit: https://whc.unesco.org/en/news/2862/
