- Event Report · Paris, France
YOUTH WORLD SUMMIT 2026
11–14 June 2026 · Mercure Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle Hotel
- 60+ Countries
- 4 Days
- Leadership & Policy
- Paris, France
The Youth World Summit 2026, held from 11–14 June 2026, brought together a diverse cohort of emerging leaders, youth advocates, students, and professionals representing more than 60 countries for four days of dialogue, collaboration, and leadership development in Paris, France.
Organized by the Center for International Policy and Sustainability (CIPS), the summit was designed to provide young people with a platform to engage in discussions on democracy, governance, civic participation, and international cooperation. At a time of evolving political, social, and technological challenges, the summit created a space for meaningful exchange, cross-cultural collaboration, and leadership development among emerging leaders from around the world.
60+
Countries represented
4
Days of programming
7
Key events & workshops
01
Global Welcome Reception
Mercure Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle Hotel
The Youth World Summit 2026 commenced with an elegant opening evening at the Mercure Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle Hotel, bringing together delegates from diverse cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds. The session marked the beginning of four days of learning, collaboration, and international engagement, setting the stage for meaningful conversations on leadership, innovation, and the future of global cooperation.
Participants were introduced to the summit’s vision and objectives while having the opportunity to meet fellow delegates from around the world. The opening program was hosted by Master of Ceremony Éloïne Ramon-Burgada, whose engaging facilitation helped create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere for the summit’s first gathering.
The evening concluded with a networking dinner, providing delegates with an opportunity to connect with fellow participants, exchange ideas, and establish meaningful international relationships that would continue throughout the summit.
The Youth World Summit 2026 commenced with an elegant opening evening at the Mercure Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle Hotel, bringing together delegates from diverse cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds. The session marked the beginning of four days of learning, collaboration, and international engagement, setting the stage for meaningful conversations on leadership, innovation, and the future of global cooperation. The welcoming atmosphere encouraged participants to begin building connections while embracing the summit’s spirit of shared learning and cross-cultural exchange.
Participants were introduced to the summit’s vision and objectives while having the opportunity to meet fellow delegates from around the world. The opening program was hosted by Master of Ceremony Éloïne Ramon-Burgada, whose engaging facilitation helped create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere for the summit’s first gathering. Through the opening remarks and introductions, delegates gained an understanding of the summit’s purpose and the collaborative journey that would unfold over the coming days.
The evening concluded with a networking dinner, providing delegates with an opportunity to connect with fellow participants, exchange ideas, and establish meaningful international relationships that would continue throughout the summit. The informal setting encouraged conversations across cultures and disciplines, laying the foundation for lasting collaborations and a strong sense of community among participants as they embarked on the summit experience together.
- MC: Éloïne Ramon-Burgada
03
Visit to the OECD Headquarters, Paris
Policy briefings, workshops & institutional tour
As part of the summit’s institutional exposure component, delegates visited the headquarters of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris, one of the world’s leading international organizations dedicated to evidence-based policymaking and global development.
During the visit, participants attended a series of briefing sessions and policy discussions led by OECD officials and experts. The engagement commenced with welcome remarks by Jean-François Tremblay, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the OECD, who shared insights on Canada’s engagement with the OECD and the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. Delegates also received an introduction to the OECD’s mandate and key areas of work from Colette Morris, Deputy Chief of Staff.
The visit featured specialized workshops and policy discussions, including “Creating Better Opportunities for Young People,” led by Veerle Miranda, Senior Economist, and Nicole Drew, Policy Analyst, who explored how governments can design inclusive policies that support youth participation, employment, and social development. Delegates also participated in “OECD Work on Skills and Youth,” facilitated by Francesca Borgonovi, Senior Policy Analyst at the OECD Centre for Skills, which focused on the importance of skills development and lifelong learning in preparing young people for an evolving global economy.
The experience provided valuable exposure to global governance processes and strengthened participants’ understanding of how international institutions develop, evaluate, and implement policy recommendations. Delegates also toured the OECD premises, gaining a deeper appreciation for the organization’s role in fostering international dialogue, evidence-based policymaking, and sustainable development.
The visit fostered a deeper appreciation for international cooperation and highlighted the importance of informed leadership, dialogue, and policy innovation in building more resilient and inclusive societies.
- Jean-François Tremblay
- Colette Morris
- Veerle Miranda
- Nicole Drew
- Francesca Borgonovi
04
High Level Panel Discussion
Youth Leadership in an Era of Global Uncertainty
A key highlight of the summit was the Policy Dialogue on Youth Leadership in an Era of Global Uncertainty, where experts and youth leaders discussed the challenges and opportunities facing young people today.
Martina Hartwig spoke on democratic participation, social cohesion, and gender equality, while Mosopefoluwa Akinrinmade highlighted climate justice, sustainability, and youth leadership in environmental action. Hanna Agbanrin, Alexander Nemeth, and Hamza Ghoumrassi of the OECD Youthwise initiative shared insights on digital inclusion, education, and youth participation in decision-making.
The session explored youth leadership, policymaking, climate action, digital transformation, and international cooperation, with delegates actively engaging in discussions that encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and responsible leadership.
- Martina Hartwig
- Mosopefoluwa Akinrinmade
- Hanna Agbanrin
- Alexander Nemeth
- Hamza Ghoumrassi
05
Youth Leaders Statements
Amplifying youth voices on the global stage
A powerful segment of the summit featured Youth Leaders Statements, where selected participants took the stage to share their insights, aspirations, and perspectives on leadership and global challenges.
Representing diverse countries and backgrounds, delegates addressed themes such as youth empowerment, technological responsibility, sustainable development, and inclusive governance. The speeches demonstrated confidence, clarity of thought, and a strong commitment to constructive global engagement.
This segment reinforced the summit’s emphasis on amplifying youth voices in meaningful spaces.
06
Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership
Interactive workshop on equity and representation
A key feature of the summit was an interactive workshop on Gender Equality and Inclusive Leadership, facilitated by Jillian LeBlanc. The session provided delegates with an opportunity to explore the importance of equity, inclusion, and diverse representation in leadership and decision-making processes.
Through engaging discussions and practical activities, participants examined the barriers that continue to affect equal participation and explored strategies for fostering more inclusive environments within their communities, institutions, and organizations. The workshop highlighted the role of inclusive leadership in promoting innovation, collaboration, and sustainable progress.
Delegates actively contributed their perspectives and experiences, creating a dynamic learning environment that encouraged reflection, dialogue, and collective problem-solving. The session reinforced the importance of empowering diverse voices and building leadership approaches that are equitable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all members of society.
- Jillian LeBlanc
Cultural Night & Closing Ceremony
Closing
The Youth World Summit 2026 concluded with a vibrant Cultural Night, celebrating the diversity of the global delegation. Participants proudly represented their countries through traditional attire, national flags, and cultural expressions, creating an atmosphere of mutual understanding, respect, and cross-cultural appreciation.
The Closing Ceremony followed, during which certificates were awarded to participants in recognition of their successful engagement in the Youth World Summit 2026. The ceremony marked the formal conclusion of four impactful days of dialogue, learning, and collaboration while celebrating the achievements and contributions of delegates throughout the summit.
As delegates departed Paris, they carried with them new perspectives, valuable connections, and a renewed commitment to shaping the future through leadership, innovation, and international cooperation.
- Certificates Awarded to All Delegates
