WTO Young Trade Leaders Programme 2025: (Deadline: 2 May, 2025)

Applications are open for the WTO Young Trade Leaders Programme 2025. The Young Trade Leaders Programme aims to foster a better understanding of the WTO’s work and international trade among young people by creating a network of “Young Trade Leaders” around the world.

World Trade Organization (WTO) Young Trade Leaders are exceptional young people who have a clear understanding of how trade can be of benefit to people and planet. They bring new perspectives and ideas about the role of trade and the WTO while also having the opportunity to learn about the organization’s work and play a role in advancing its mission.

Benefits

Selected Young Trade Leaders will 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;
• coordinate a session during the WTO’s annual Public Forum;
• benefit from existing WTO training programmes;
• benefit from WTO Secretariat advice and mentoring;
• receive support when organizing WTO-related activities in their home countries.

Eligibility

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.

Application

The deadline for applications for the 2025 Programme is 2 May 2025 (23.59 CET). Selected leaders will not receive remuneration, but they will be invited to travel to Geneva to participate in the 2025 WTO Public Forum in September.

Candidates should submit their application by filling out the online application form and uploading the relevant documentation.

• 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.
• Written contribution: Maximum of 300 words, answering the question: “How can trade positively contribute to people and planet?”

For more information, visit WTO Young Trade Leaders Programme.