The High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for young people 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), with applications open until April 06, 2026. This fully global policy engagement opportunity is a chance for youth to contribute to international dialogue on sustainable development and showcase community-driven solutions and local innovations. By applying for HLPF 2026, young people can be part of a critical moment to accelerate global action toward the SDGs as the 2030 deadline approaches.
About the Opportunity
The High-Level Political Forum (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, and driving forward inclusive, sustainable, and evidence-based solutions. The HLPF convenes annually, bringing together Heads of State and Government, Ministers and UN officials, civil society organizations, youth leaders and innovators, and private sector representatives to discuss and address the world’s most pressing challenges. For Africans, this opportunity is particularly significant, as it provides a platform to engage with global leaders and decision-makers, and to contribute to the development of solutions that address the unique challenges faced by the African continent, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
The HLPF is also an opportunity for Africans to learn from other regions and countries, and to share their own experiences and successes in achieving the SDGs. By participating in the HLPF, Africans can gain a deeper understanding of the global governance and multilateral processes that shape the development agenda, and can develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively engage with these processes. Furthermore, the HLPF provides a platform for Africans to showcase their innovations and solutions, and to connect with other stakeholders who can support the scaling up of these initiatives.
The HLPF is part of a broader effort by the United Nations to support the achievement of the SDGs, and to ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a more sustainable and equitable world. By participating in the HLPF, Africans can be part of this effort, and can contribute to the development of a more just and prosperous world for all. The HLPF is also an opportunity for Africans to engage with the Agenda 2063 of the African Union, and to explore how the SDGs can be aligned with the aspirations and priorities of the African continent.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the HLPF 2026, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:
- Being a young person between the ages of 18 and 30, with a strong interest in sustainable development and global governance
- Having a good understanding of the SDGs and the 2030 Agenda, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the African continent
- Having experience in community development, advocacy, or policy work, with a focus on sustainable development and social justice
- Being able to communicate effectively in English, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and to articulate complex ideas in a clear and concise manner
- Being available to attend the HLPF 2026 in New York, with the ability to participate fully in the conference and to engage with other participants
What You Will Gain
By participating in the HLPF 2026, young people can gain a range of benefits, including:
- The opportunity to engage with global leaders and decision-makers, and to contribute to international dialogue on sustainable development
- The chance to showcase community-driven solutions and local innovations, and to connect with other stakeholders who can support the scaling up of these initiatives
- The opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in areas such as policy analysis, advocacy, and community development, with a focus on sustainable development and social justice
- The chance to strengthen networks with global youth advocates and organizations, and to be part of a global movement of young people working to achieve the SDGs
- The opportunity to gain exposure to global governance and multilateral processes, and to develop a deeper understanding of the complex issues and challenges faced by the world today
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to be part of the HLPF 2026 and to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. Deadline: April 06, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to complete all the requirements and to submit a strong application.
How to Apply for High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2026: Youth Applications Open to Attend UN Summit in New York (Fully Global Policy Engagement Opportunity)
To apply for the HLPF 2026, follow these steps: review the eligibility criteria and application requirements, prepare your application package, including a personal statement and a CV, and submit your application through the online portal. Make sure to provide all the required information and to follow the instructions carefully. You can also review the application guidelines and FAQs on the website to get more information and to get tips on how to submit a strong application.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The HLPF 2026 is a unique opportunity for young people to engage with global leaders and to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. By applying for this opportunity, you can be part of a global movement of young people working to create a more sustainable and equitable world. Do not miss this chance to make a difference and to gain valuable experience and skills – apply now and be part of the HLPF 2026!
