The International Youth Summit Pakistan (IYSP) 2026 is set to return to Lahore as an international platform bringing together young leaders, activists, entrepreneurs, academics, and emerging policymakers from around the world.
Formerly known as the International Youth Summit Lahore (IYSL), the initiative began in 2017 and has previously connected more than 300 delegates from 60+ countries. After a break following the COVID-19 pandemic, the summit is returning in 2026 with an expanded focus on strategic dialogue, leadership, international affairs, and youth-led policy solutions.
International Youth Summit Pakistan 2026 – Quick Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Summit | International Youth Summit Pakistan (IYSP) 2026 |
| Location | Lahore, Pakistan |
| Dates | 27 November – 4 December 2026 |
| Organiser | Centre for Regional Strategy & Global Affairs (CRSGA) |
| Host Institution | University of Lahore |
| Participants | 100+ young leaders |
| Countries Targeted | 50+ |
| Age Limit | 18–35 years |
| Funding | Partially funded |
| Language | English |
| Nationalities | Open to all nationalities |
| Travel Support | Support letters for travel-grant applications |
What Is IYSP 2026?
IYSP 2026 is designed as more than a traditional youth conference. The organisers describe the revived summit as a transition from a youth exchange programme into a broader international strategic dialogue platform.
The programme will focus on bringing young people from different countries together to discuss global challenges, develop practical policy recommendations, and build long-term international networks.
The summit is organised by the Centre for Regional Strategy & Global Affairs (CRSGA) at the University of Lahore.
Key Themes of the Summit
The programme is connected to five major research and dialogue areas:
- Geopolitics and Strategic Affairs
- Regional Connectivity and Geo-Economics
- Governance, Security and Emerging Threats
- Strategic Technologies and Digital Governance
- Youth Strategic Leadership and Global Dialogue
Participants are expected to engage in discussions, workshops and working groups related to these areas.
Who Can Apply for IYSP 2026?
The summit is open to young people from different professional and academic backgrounds. According to the published eligibility criteria, applicants should generally:
- Be 18–35 years old
- Have working proficiency in English
- Demonstrate an interest in global affairs and youth leadership
- Be willing to participate in international dialogue and collaborative activities
- Be from any nationality, with participation targeted from 50+ countries
The organisers also state that the programme aims for at least 30% female representation and strong participation from Global South countries.
What Is Covered?
IYSP 2026 is described as a partially funded opportunity.
According to the organisers, selected delegates will have their local summit logistics covered, including:
- Accommodation
- Food
- Local transportation
- Cultural visits
However, applicants should carefully note that international airfare and other personal travel expenses are not stated as fully covered. The organisers indicate that support letters may be provided for participants seeking travel grants.
Therefore, applicants should not treat IYSP 2026 as a completely fully funded international summit unless the organisers specifically confirm otherwise.
Summit Programme
The conference is expected to combine formal discussions with interactive activities.
Plenary Sessions
Large sessions will bring together delegates and speakers to explore the summit’s five strategic themes. These sessions may include keynote speakers, expert panels and Q&A discussions.
Parallel Workshops
Smaller working groups will allow participants to explore specific issues in greater depth with researchers and invited experts.
Speaker Talks
The programme will also feature short presentations from professionals including diplomats, entrepreneurs, journalists, policymakers and other practitioners.
Youth Policy Working Groups
Delegates will work across nationalities to develop practical policy recommendations. These recommendations are intended to contribute to the IYSP 2026 Communiqué.
Why Attend IYSP 2026?
For students and young professionals interested in international affairs, the summit can provide an opportunity to:
- Meet young leaders from different countries
- Develop international networks
- Participate in strategic discussions
- Learn from diplomats, researchers and practitioners
- Explore global policy issues
- Experience Pakistani culture and Lahore
- Contribute to youth-led policy recommendations
- Become part of an international alumni network
International Youth Summit Pakistan 2026 Dates
The fourth edition of IYSP is scheduled to take place from 27 November to 4 December 2026 in Lahore, Pakistan.
The previous editions were held in 2017, 2018 and 2019, before the programme entered a hiatus following the COVID-19 pandemic.
How to Apply for IYSP 2026?
Interested applicants can submit their application through the official IYSP platform.
Official application portal: https://iysp.crsga.org/apply
Applicants should review the eligibility requirements and programme information carefully before submitting their application.
Important Note
IYSP 2026 is described by its organisers as a partially funded summit. Accommodation, food, local transport and cultural visits are stated to be covered, while international travel is not presented as fully funded. Applicants should verify the latest funding conditions, application requirements and deadlines directly through the official IYSP website before making travel arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Youth Summit Pakistan 2026?
IYSP 2026 is an international youth diplomacy and strategic dialogue forum taking place in Lahore, Pakistan.
When will IYSP 2026 take place?
The summit is scheduled for 27 November to 4 December 2026.
Where will IYSP 2026 be held?
The summit will take place in Lahore, Pakistan, under the Centre for Regional Strategy & Global Affairs at the University of Lahore.
What is the age limit for IYSP 2026?
The general age requirement is 18–35 years, although exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Is IYSP 2026 fully funded?
No. The programme is described as partially funded. Organisers state that accommodation, food, local transportation and cultural visits are covered. Support letters may also be available for travel-grant applications.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. IYSP 2026 is open to applicants of all nationalities, with participation targeted from more than 50 countries.
Is English required?
Yes. Applicants should have a working proficiency in English because the summit involves international discussions and workshops.
Who organises IYSP 2026?
The summit is organised by the Centre for Regional Strategy & Global Affairs (CRSGA) at the University of Lahore.
