YBB – The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 will take place in the Republic of Korea from 13 to 21 July 2026. This nine-day international forum will bring together young professionals from around the world who work in fields related to heritage conservation, education, research, and community engagement. The program focuses on the theme “World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change.”
This fully funded international opportunity aims to strengthen the skills of young professionals and encourage their active participation in protecting and managing natural and cultural heritage sites. Participants will explore how youth engagement, education, and community collaboration contribute to sustainable heritage management. In addition, the program will offer practical insights through workshops, discussions, and site visits.
About the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026
The forum will run alongside the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee. During the program, selected participants will collaborate on discussions related to heritage management and youth participation. At the end of the forum, participants will present a Youth Declaration to the committee.
Furthermore, the forum will highlight the importance of community involvement in preserving cultural and natural heritage. Participants will examine real-world examples of heritage management in the Republic of Korea. Through these activities, young professionals will strengthen their understanding of how heritage conservation connects with education, governance, and community development.
Program Overview
Host Country: Republic of Korea
Organizers: Korea Heritage Service (KHS) and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (KNCU) under the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme
Program Duration: 9 Days
Forum Dates: 13–21 July 2026
The program will include interactive workshops, expert lectures, collaborative discussions, and field visits to selected World Heritage properties in South Korea.
Also read : Why Vietnam Becomes the Host Country of World Youth Festival 2026?
Benefits of the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026
Participants will receive comprehensive support during the program. The benefits include:
- Round-trip international airfare (economy class)
- Free accommodation throughout the forum
- Meals provided by the organizers
- Local transportation within South Korea
- Visa support where applicable
- Participation in workshops, site visits, and expert discussions
- Opportunity to present the Youth Declaration at the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee
Because the program covers major expenses, participants can focus fully on learning, collaboration, and professional development.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants must be between 23 and 32 years old (born between 1994 and 2003).
- Candidates should work in fields related to World Heritage site management, education, research, innovation, or community organizations.
- Applicants must demonstrate active involvement in heritage-related activities.
- Participants must be available for the entire duration of the forum.
- Applicants must show good proficiency in English, since the program will operate entirely in English.
Young professionals from different countries and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Also read : Energy Journalism Fellows Program 2026 in New York, USA (Fully Funded)
How to Apply
Interested candidates should follow these steps to submit their application:
- Access the official online application form.
- Complete the form in English only.
- Provide personal details and educational background.
- Explain your motivation for joining the forum and how it will benefit your professional development.
- Upload your CV and passport-size photograph.
- Submit any additional supporting documents if required.
- Agree to the terms and conditions before submitting the application.
Applicants should carefully review their information before submitting the final application.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 is 15 March 2026. Early submission is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Official Application Link
Apply here:
https://whc.unesco.org/en/news/2862/
Conclusion
The UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for young leaders who want to contribute to heritage conservation and sustainable development. Participants will gain valuable knowledge, expand their international network, and collaborate with experts in heritage management and education. Moreover, the program allows young professionals to share their perspectives directly with global decision-makers. For anyone passionate about cultural heritage, community engagement, and youth leadership, this fully funded forum in South Korea represents a meaningful step toward global impact.
