YLSA 2026: Fully Funded Young Leaders Summer Academy in Germany

YLSA 2026 applications are now open for the fully funded Young Leaders Summer Academy on Climate Change and Security taking place from 5–8 July 2026 in Hamburg, Germany. Early-career scholars, diplomats, journalists, and practitioners from the Middle East and Europe are invited to apply before the 2 March 2026 deadline, with all travel, accommodation, and meal costs covered by the organizers.

The Summer Academy 2026 focuses on the urgent nexus between climate change and security, equipping future leaders with strategic foresight skills and interdisciplinary expertise to address regional and global challenges collaboratively.

 

About the Summer Academy 2026

The Young Leaders Summer Academy 2026 is organised by:

• Institute for International Cooperation, Technological Diplomacy and Communication (ICI)
• German Institute of Global and Area Studies (GIGA)
• Helmut Schmidt University / University of the Federal Armed Forces Hamburg

The program responds to escalating regional tensions and the growing impact of climate change on security dynamics. The Summer Academy 2026 seeks to foster dialogue and cooperation between emerging leaders from the Middle East and Europe.

Climate change increasingly shapes political stability, economic resilience, and security policy. Extreme weather events, long-term environmental transformations, and the global transition away from fossil fuels create interconnected security implications. The Summer Academy 2026 addresses these complex challenges through interdisciplinary dialogue.

 

Summer Academy 2026 Goals

The Summer Academy 2026 has two main objectives:

1. Building Networks for Peace

Participants will engage in professional exchange with peers and high-ranking international experts. The program creates a protected space for dialogue, free from domestic political pressures, encouraging collaborative problem-solving across regions.

2. Strengthening Strategic Skills

The Summer Academy 2026 provides training in:

• Strategic foresight
• Scenario development
• Policy strategy design
• Anticipating alternative futures

These skills prepare participants to integrate climate and security perspectives into future leadership roles.

 

Summer Academy 2026 Theme: Climate Change and Security

The 2026 theme, “Climate Change and Security,” explores:

• Impacts of extreme weather events on regional stability
• Long-term environmental transformation and migration
• Fossil fuel transitions and geopolitical implications
• Multidimensional mitigation and adaptation strategies

Participants will analyze how environmental stressors intersect with political, economic, and social systems. The Summer Academy 2026 encourages holistic and sustainable approaches to peacebuilding.

 

Benefits of the Summer Academy 2026

The Summer Academy 2026 is fully funded. Selected participants will receive:

• Full travel coverage
• Accommodation in Hamburg
• Meals during the program
• Access to leading international experts
• Intensive interdisciplinary training
• Long-term professional networking opportunities

Participation in the Summer Academy 2026 also enhances professional credibility and provides exposure to global policy discussions.

 

Who Can Apply for the Summer Academy 2026?

Eligible applicants include:

• Early-career scholars
• Diplomats
• Journalists
• Policy practitioners

 

Applicants must be from:

• The Middle East (broad definition)
• Europe

Candidates from diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply, including:

• Social sciences
• Natural sciences
• Economics
• Law
• History

The Summer Academy 2026 promotes interdisciplinary exchange and values diverse perspectives.

 

Duration and Location

Program Dates: 5–8 July 2026

Location: Hamburg, Germany

Format: In-person

The Summer Academy 2026 takes place annually, building a growing network of future leaders committed to peace and sustainability.

 

How to Apply for the Summer Academy 2026

Applicants must submit:

• CV
• Letter of motivation (maximum 2 pages)

Documents should be combined into a single PDF file.

Email subject line:

“CfA YLSA 2026 [Your Last Name]”

Send to:

romanyshyn@ici-institute.de

Summer Academy 2026 Deadline

APPLY HERE

Application Deadline:

2 March 2026

Late submissions will not be considered.

 

Final Note

The Summer Academy 2026 offers a rare opportunity for emerging leaders from the Middle East and Europe to collaboratively explore climate-security challenges in a structured, expert-led environment. By combining interdisciplinary dialogue with strategic foresight training, the program strengthens the next generation of policymakers and changemakers working toward sustainable peace.

For more global fellowships, summer programs, grants, and scholarships, click here to explore more opportunities on Opportunities for Youth