The World Trade Organization (WTO) Young Trade Leaders Programme 2025 for Young People Worldwide

Reach us on

The WTO is inviting applications for the 2025 Young Trade Leaders Programme, an initiative aimed at fostering a better understanding of the WTO’s work and international trade among young people and creating a network of Young Trade Leaders around the world.

Candidates selected to be WTO Young Trade Leaders will be exceptional young people who have a clear understanding of how trade can be of benefit to people and planet. They will bring fresh perspectives and ideas about the role of trade and the WTO while also having the opportunity to learn about the organization’s work and advance its mission.

Young Trade Leaders Programme Benefits

Selected Young Trade Leaders have the opportunity to:

Gain a greater understanding of the workings of the WTO and international trade
Publish articles, blogs, podcasts and social media content on trade-related topics
Attend an in-person one-day training programme at the WTO in Geneva
Contribute to and/or coordinate a session at the Public Forum 2025
Benefit from existing WTO training programmes
Benefit from WTO Secretariat advice and mentoring
Receive support when organizing WTO-related activities in their home countries

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be:

Between the ages of 18 and 28 on the closing date for applications, with a strong interest in international trade
A citizen of a WTO member
Neither currently affiliated with the WTO, nor have a relative who is currently WTO-affiliated
Able to demonstrate a good level of written and spoken English – knowledge of a second WTO working language (French or Spanish) is an asset
Attuned to the need for diplomacy, show a willingness to respect diverse perspectives, willing to foster understanding of trade issues and promote constructive dialogue

Selection process

The WTO Secretariat will review all applications. Short-listed applicants will be invited to take part in an interview in May 2025.
Selected leaders will not receive remuneration but they will be invited to travel to Geneva to participate in the WTO Public Forum in September 2025.

How to Apply for Young Trade Leaders Programme

Candidates should submit their application by filling out the online application form and uploading the relevant documentation.

CV: No more than two pages.
2-minute video: In which the candidate briefly introduces themselves, expresses their interest in the programme, and explains the impact they hope to have as a Young Trade Leader.
Written contribution: Maximum of 300 words, answering the question: “How can trade positively contribute to people and planet?”

The application period is open until . Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Applications may only be submitted via the online platform.

Click Here to Apply

Application Deadline: 2 May 2025 (23.59 CET)