Fully Funded Young Leaders Programme 2026 in Vietnam

Are you a young researcher or emerging professional passionate about maritime security, international relations and regional cooperation?

Applications are open for the Young Leaders Programme 2026, a fully funded opportunity taking place alongside the 18th South China Sea International Conference in Hanoi, Vietnam, from 6 to 8 October 2026.

The programme will bring together eight promising young leaders to engage with respected scholars, policymakers and practitioners working on important maritime and geopolitical issues affecting the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Selected participants will attend conference sessions, exchange ideas with international experts, build valuable professional networks and present their policy proposals during a dedicated Young Leaders Special Session.

What the programme covers

Successful applicants will receive:

* Round-trip economy-class airfare
* Three nights’ accommodation
* Local transportation
* Meals during the programme
* Full access to the conference
* A Certificate of Attendance
* Membership in the programme’s alumni network
* Opportunities to network with international scholars and professionals

Who can apply?

Applicants should:

* Be between 20 and 35 years old at the beginning of the programme
* Be fluent in English
* Have a background in political science, international relations, international law or another relevant social science discipline
* Demonstrate an interest in maritime security, regional cooperation or related international issues
* Be prepared to contribute ideas and participate actively in programme activities

The opportunity is open to applicants of all nationalities. There is no application fee, and an IELTS certificate is not required.

Only eight Young Leaders will be selected, so interested candidates are encouraged to prepare and submit strong applications before the deadline.

Application deadline: 13 September 2026

Programme dates: 6–8 October 2026

Location: Hanoi, Vietnam

Take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen your policy knowledge, share your ideas and connect with a global community of emerging and established leaders.