Youth applications are now open for the 2026 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), taking place from July 7–15, 2026 at United Nations Headquarters in New York City.
This is a prestigious opportunity for young people in Canada to engage directly with global leaders, policymakers, and development practitioners working to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What is the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF)?
The High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) is the United Nations’ central platform for:
- Reviewing global progress on the 2030 Agenda
- Monitoring implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Promoting accountability and policy coordination across countries
- Driving forward inclusive, sustainable, and evidence-based solutions
Each year, HLPF convenes:
- Heads of State and Government
- Ministers and UN officials
- Civil society organizations
- Youth leaders and innovators
- Private sector representatives
Why You Should Apply for HLPF 2026
HLPF 2026 represents a critical moment to accelerate global action toward the SDGs as the 2030 deadline approaches.
Selected youth participants will have the opportunity to:
- Participate in high-level policy discussions at the United Nations
- Engage with global leaders and decision-makers
- Contribute to international dialogue on sustainable development
- Showcase community-driven solutions and local innovations
- Strengthen networks with global youth advocates and organizations
- Gain exposure to global governance and multilateral processes
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for HLPF 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or individual with refugee status
- Reside in Canada for the duration of the programme and event
- Be aged 18–30 years at the time of the event
- Demonstrate active engagement in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through:
- Community initiatives
- Academic research
- Advocacy work
- Entrepreneurship
- Innovative projects
Important Notes
- Individuals temporarily in Canada (e.g., students or tourists on non-immigrant visas) are not eligible
- Applicants living outside Canada are not eligible
- If a U.S. visa is required, applicants must indicate this in their application
- While support letters may be provided, applicants are responsible for meeting all U.S. entry requirements
What Makes a Strong Application?
Strong candidates typically demonstrate:
- Clear commitment to sustainable development and SDG impact
- Evidence of leadership and initiative
- Experience in community or global engagement
- A focus on equity, inclusion, and collaboration
- Ability to translate local impact into global relevance
Application Deadline
- Deadline: April 6, 2026 (11:45 PM)
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted approximately two weeks after the deadline
How to Apply
Submit your application here:
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Rs4xYpvFukaie_YKxYkOFyr00ELyvRhBmoHhpGlQ_59UQjc2WFhFQkJRWkdLRUFaR0NXMVJBNTVKVi4u&origin=lprLink&route=shorturl
The High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2026 is one of the most influential global platforms for shaping sustainable development policy. For young leaders in Canada, this is a rare opportunity to move from local action to global influence—bringing grassroots solutions to the world stage at the United Nations.
If you are passionate about driving impact, influencing policy, and contributing to the SDGs, this is an opportunity you should not miss.