Young Leaders Programme 2026 in Vietnam: Fully Funded Opportunity for Young Researchers to Attend the South China Sea International Conference

The Young Leaders Programme 2026 is inviting emerging researchers and young professionals with an interest in maritime security, international relations, political science, international law and related social sciences to apply for an opportunity to participate in the 18th South China Sea International Conference, taking place in Hanoi, Vietnam, from 6 to 8 October 2026.

The programme is designed to give the next generation of regional and global leaders an opportunity to engage directly with leading scholars, policymakers, practitioners and experts working on some of the most important geopolitical and maritime issues affecting the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Selected participants will have the opportunity to attend the conference, participate in discussions and side events, develop professional networks, and present their own policy ideas during a dedicated Young Leaders Special Session. The organisers will provide substantial financial support covering round-trip economy airfare, accommodation, local transportation and meals.

For young researchers seeking international exposure, policy experience and connections with established experts in maritime affairs and regional cooperation, this programme offers a valuable platform to learn, contribute and build relationships with peers from around the world.

About the Young Leaders Programme 2026

The Young Leaders Programme is an initiative organised as part of the South China Sea International Conference, a major regional forum focused on maritime security, geopolitics and issues affecting the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific.

The annual conference brings together prominent scholars, practitioners and policymakers to examine developments in regional and international affairs. Participants have the opportunity to hear from leading experts, exchange perspectives and discuss complex challenges relating to maritime security, regional cooperation and sustainable development.

The Young Leaders Programme extends this platform to the next generation of researchers and emerging leaders.

Rather than simply attending the conference as observers, selected Young Leaders are encouraged to actively contribute their perspectives. The programme is intended to help participants strengthen their knowledge, develop practical policy-thinking skills and engage constructively with experts and fellow young researchers.

The 2026 programme is particularly focused on regional cooperation and next-generation solutions, encouraging young participants to consider innovative approaches to achieving a peaceful, stable and prosperous South China Sea.

When and Where Will the Programme Take Place?

The Young Leaders Programme 2026 will take place in:

• Location: Hanoi, Vietnam
• Dates: 6–8 October 2026
• Event: 18th South China Sea International Conference
• Programme focus: Regional cooperation and next-generation solutions

Participants will be able to follow presentations and discussions throughout the conference while also taking part in activities specifically designed for Young Leaders.

What Is the South China Sea International Conference?

The South China Sea International Conference, organised by the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam, is an established regional forum dealing with maritime security and geopolitical issues.

The conference attracts participation from scholars, practitioners, policymakers and other experts from Vietnam and abroad. Its discussions address matters that are important not only to countries directly connected to the South China Sea but also to the wider Indo-Pacific region.

The conference provides a setting where participants can examine complex issues from different perspectives and engage with people working in academia, government, think tanks and other policy communities.

For young researchers, participation therefore offers more than an academic conference experience. It can provide exposure to current debates, policy discussions and professional networks connected to maritime affairs and international relations.

What Will Young Leaders Do at the Conference?

One of the most important aspects of the programme is that selected Young Leaders are expected to actively engage with the conference rather than simply attend sessions.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

1. Attend the South China Sea International Conference

Young Leaders will receive full participation in the 18th South China Sea International Conference.

This means they can follow presentations, listen to expert discussions and gain firsthand exposure to debates surrounding the South China Sea and broader regional issues.

2. Engage With Leading Experts

The programme provides opportunities for young researchers to interact with prominent scholars, practitioners and policymakers.

Participants may use these interactions to ask questions, exchange ideas and gain perspectives from individuals with substantial experience in international affairs, maritime security and regional cooperation.

3. Present a Policy Pitch

A particularly valuable component of the programme is the dedicated Young Leaders Special Session.

During this session, selected Young Leaders will have an opportunity to present their policy pitches in front of peers and the wider conference audience.

This gives participants a platform to transform their research, observations or ideas into practical policy proposals and communicate them to an audience interested in regional affairs.

4. Participate in Side Events

Young Leaders will also participate in side events connected to the conference.

These activities provide opportunities for deeper exchanges with speakers and experts about topics discussed during the main conference.

Such interactions can help participants explore issues beyond formal presentations and develop a better understanding of different viewpoints.

5. Contribute Ideas for the Future of the Region

The programme encourages Young Leaders to think creatively about how to promote a peaceful, stable and prosperous South China Sea.

Participants are therefore expected to bring their own perspectives and ideas to discussions about regional cooperation, maritime security and development.

Key Benefits of the Young Leaders Programme 2026

The programme offers both financial and professional benefits to successful applicants.

Fully Sponsored Travel and Participation

One of the most significant benefits is the financial support provided by the organisers.

The sponsorship covers:

• Round-trip economy-class airfare
• Three-night accommodation
• Local transportation
• Meals during the programme

This substantially reduces the financial barriers associated with travelling to Vietnam for an international conference.

Full Participation in the Conference

Selected Young Leaders will receive full participation in the 18th South China Sea International Conference.

This gives them access to conference presentations and discussions involving experts working on important geopolitical and maritime issues.

International Professional Networking

Participants will become part of a network involving scholars and professionals from around the world.

The programme specifically highlights connections with individuals from prestigious think tanks and universities.

For early-career researchers, such networks can be valuable for discovering future research collaborations, academic opportunities, professional relationships and broader international engagements.

Opportunity to Present a Policy Pitch

The Young Leaders Special Session gives participants an opportunity to publicly present their ideas.

This can help participants gain experience in:

• Policy communication
• Public speaking
• Presenting research
• Defending ideas
• Engaging with expert audiences
• Translating research into policy recommendations

Certificate of Attendance

Participants will receive Certificates of Attendance at the Conference.

This can serve as formal documentation of participation in an international conference and may be useful when documenting professional, academic or research experience.

Access to the Alumni Network

Successful participants will become part of the South China Sea Conference Young Leaders Programme Alumni Network.

This creates the possibility of maintaining connections with other Young Leaders after the conference and continuing to engage with a broader community of researchers and emerging professionals interested in regional affairs.

Who Can Apply for the Young Leaders Programme 2026?

The programme is intended for young researchers and emerging leaders between the ages of 20 and 35 who have relevant academic or professional interests.

Applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be between 20 and 35 years old at the start of the programme.

Because the programme takes place in October 2026, applicants should ensure that they meet the specified age requirement when the programme begins.

English Language Requirement

Candidates must be able to use English fluently.

This requirement is important because the programme involves participation in international discussions, interaction with experts and presentation of ideas.

Applicants should therefore be comfortable communicating, listening, reading and participating in discussions in English.

Academic or Professional Background

Candidates should have background knowledge in relevant disciplines, including:

• Political science
• International relations
• International law
• Other social sciences

Applicants whose academic or professional work intersects with these fields may find the programme particularly relevant.

Interest in Maritime Security

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to maritime security and related issues.

This means applicants should be able to demonstrate genuine interest or experience related to maritime affairs, geopolitical developments, international cooperation or other relevant areas.

Simply meeting the age requirement is therefore not enough. Applicants should clearly communicate their interest and engagement with the subject matter.

How Many Young Leaders Will Be Selected?

The programme will select eight Young Leaders from the applicant pool.

Because the number of available places is limited, applicants should make their applications as strong and relevant as possible.

A competitive application should clearly demonstrate the candidate’s academic or professional background, interest in maritime security and ability to contribute meaningful perspectives to discussions surrounding the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific.

Countries and Regions Eligible to Apply

The programme description states that it seeks to bring together young potential leaders from across the region while also positioning the initiative within the broader Indo-Pacific context.

The information provided does not specify an exhaustive list of eligible countries or a particular race or ethnicity requirement.

Therefore, applicants should carefully review the official application form and any accompanying instructions to determine whether there are additional geographic eligibility conditions that may apply.

The programme is designed around regional and international engagement, and its stated objective is to connect young researchers interested in the South China Sea with experts and peers from across the region and globally.

What Kind of Applicant Is the Programme Looking For?

Beyond the formal eligibility requirements, the programme is particularly relevant to individuals who can demonstrate a strong intellectual or professional interest in regional and international affairs.

A strong candidate may have:

1. An academic background in political science, international relations, international law or another social science discipline.
2. Research interests connected to the South China Sea, maritime security or regional cooperation.
3. Knowledge of geopolitical or maritime issues affecting the Indo-Pacific.
4. Experience conducting research or writing about relevant policy issues.
5. A demonstrated interest in peace, stability and regional development.
6. Strong English communication skills.
7. An ability to engage constructively with people holding different perspectives.
8. Ideas that could contribute to discussions about practical solutions to regional challenges.

Applicants should focus on showing why their experience and perspective would add value to the Young Leaders Programme.

Why This Opportunity Matters for Young Researchers

International conferences can be difficult for early-career researchers to access because of travel costs, registration fees and limited opportunities to interact with senior experts.

The Young Leaders Programme addresses some of these barriers by providing financial support while creating a dedicated platform for emerging researchers.

The opportunity is particularly significant because participants are not merely being invited to listen to experts. They are being encouraged to contribute their own ideas through the Young Leaders Special Session and other programme activities.

For researchers interested in international relations, diplomacy, maritime affairs and regional security, this can provide practical experience in communicating research beyond traditional academic settings.

It also gives participants an opportunity to understand how academic research, policy discussions and international diplomacy intersect.

Sponsorship and Financial Support

The organisers will sponsor the participation of selected Young Leaders.

The sponsorship includes:

• Round-trip economy-class airfare
• Three-night accommodation
• Local transportation
• Meals

The sponsored accommodation is specified as covering the period associated with the programme from 6 to 8 October 2026.

Applicants should carefully review the invitation and detailed guidelines if selected, as those documents will provide the specific arrangements and instructions for participation.

Application Process

Interested candidates are required to complete the official application form.

Applicants should provide accurate and complete information and ensure that the email address entered in the application is correct.

The organisers state that selected candidates will receive an invitation containing detailed guidelines for the conference through the email address provided in the application.

Application form: Young Leaders Programme 2026 Application Form

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is:

23:59 on 13 September 2026 (GMT+7).

Applications submitted after the stated deadline will not be accepted.

Applicants should therefore avoid waiting until the final hours to submit their forms. Completing the application early provides time to review responses, check supporting information and resolve any technical issues before the deadline.

APPLY HERE

What Happens After You Apply?

After applications close, the application review board will assess the submissions.

According to the programme information, the review process may take approximately two weeks or longer.

Applicants are therefore advised to be patient while the review is conducted.

If selected, successful candidates will receive an invitation through the email address supplied in their application. The invitation will contain detailed guidelines and information concerning participation in the conference.

Applicants should therefore regularly check the email account they provide in the application.

The organisers also specifically request that applicants do not email or personally contact them to ask about application results. Emails or SMS messages requesting application status or results will not be answered.

How to Make Your Application Stronger

Although the final selection is determined by the programme’s review board, applicants can take practical steps to present a compelling application.

Demonstrate a Clear Interest in Maritime Security

Do not simply state that you are interested in maritime security. Explain what specifically interests you and why the subject matters to your academic, professional or research goals.

Connect Your Background to the Programme

Show how your studies, research, professional experience or other relevant activities relate to the programme’s themes.

For example, candidates may highlight experience involving:

• International relations
• Foreign policy
• Maritime governance
• International law
• Regional security
• Geopolitics
• Peace and cooperation
• Indo-Pacific affairs
• International development
• Policy research

Show What You Can Contribute

The programme is designed around active participation.

Applicants should therefore consider what perspectives, research findings or policy ideas they could bring to discussions about the South China Sea and regional cooperation.

Be Specific

Strong applications generally benefit from specific examples rather than broad statements.

Instead of simply describing yourself as passionate about international affairs, explain the particular issues you have researched, projects you have undertaken or questions you are currently exploring.

Check Your English

Because fluency in English is an eligibility requirement, applicants should make sure their written responses are clear, professional and easy to understand.

Review the Application Before Submission

Before submitting the form, carefully check:

• Your personal details
• Age eligibility
• Academic or professional information
• Contact information
• Email address
• Written responses
• Any requested supporting materials
• Overall consistency of the information provided

Most importantly, make sure the application is submitted before the stated deadline.

Important Dates at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Young Leaders Programme 2026 fully funded?

The programme provides substantial sponsorship for selected participants, including round-trip economy-class airfare, three-night accommodation, local transportation and meals.

How old must applicants be?

Applicants must be 20 to 35 years old at the start of the programme.

Do applicants need to speak English?

Yes. Candidates must be able to use English fluently.

What academic backgrounds are relevant?

The programme identifies political science, international relations, international law and other social sciences as relevant backgrounds.

Do I need experience in maritime security?

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to maritime security and related issues. Relevant academic research, professional experience or demonstrated interest can help establish this commitment.

How many people will be selected?

Only eight Young Leaders will be selected.

Will participants receive a certificate?

Yes. Participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance at the Conference.

Is there an alumni network?

Yes. Selected Young Leaders will become part of the South China Sea Conference Young Leaders Programme Alumni Network.

When is the application deadline?

The deadline is 23:59 on 13 September 2026 (GMT+7). Late applications will not be accepted.

How will successful applicants be notified?

Selected applicants will receive an invitation with detailed conference guidelines through the email address provided in their application.

Can applicants contact the organisers to ask about their application status?

The organisers request that applicants do not personally contact them regarding application results. The review process is expected to take around two weeks or longer, and emails or SMS messages requesting application results will not be answered.

Visit HERE for more information about the Young Leaders Programme 2026 in Vietnam.

Final Thoughts

The Young Leaders Programme 2026 provides a valuable international platform for emerging researchers and young professionals interested in maritime security, international relations, international law, political science and related social sciences.

With only eight Young Leaders to be selected, the opportunity is competitive, but successful participants can gain considerably from the experience. The programme combines fully sponsored participation with exposure to an important international conference, interaction with established experts, opportunities for policy discussion, a dedicated platform for presenting ideas, professional networking and access to an alumni community.

For young researchers interested in the South China Sea, Indo-Pacific affairs, maritime security, regional cooperation and international policy, the programme can provide an opportunity to move beyond academic study and actively participate in conversations shaping the region’s future.

For more global Fellowship opportunities, visit OFY HERE.