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CFAs: EU-India Young Leaders Exchange Programme

Deadline: 07-Dec-2025

The EU-India Young Leaders Exchange Programme 2025-26 invites emerging leaders under 35 from India and EU Member States to participate in a fully online initiative fostering dialogue, collaboration, and policy innovation. Participants engage in thematic discussions on democracy, climate action, inclusive growth, and global governance, developing policy recommendations in partnership with experts.

Programme Overview

The EU-India Young Leaders Exchange Programme is an online platform designed to strengthen EU-India collaboration by connecting young professionals and changemakers. The initiative fosters learning, dialogue, and co-creation of policy solutions on critical global issues, emphasizing international exposure and cross-border collaboration.

Thematic Focus Areas

  1. Democracy in the Digital Age – Digital governance, transparency, and citizen engagement.

  2. Climate Action and Green Transition – Sustainability, climate policy, and renewable energy.

  3. Inclusive Growth and Social Equity – Social inclusion, economic opportunity, and equity-focused policies.

  4. Geopolitics and Global Governance – International relations, multilateralism, and global policy frameworks.

Participant Benefits

  • Interactive Policy Labs and Workshops: Collaborate with diplomats, researchers, government officials, and industry experts.

  • Immersive Learning: Gain insights into EU and Indian policy-making processes.

  • Policy Co-Creation: Develop actionable recommendations to be shared with decision-makers.

  • Visibility: Selected participants may be featured in EU Delegation materials promoting youth engagement.

  • Cost: Fully free of charge to ensure equitable participation.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Citizenship: Indian nationals or citizens of EU Member States.

  • Age Limit: Under 35 years.

  • Educational Background: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree; postgraduate degrees preferred but relevant professional experience is considered.

  • Experience: Demonstrated interest or involvement in EU-India cooperation, research, public policy, diplomacy, civic engagement, or international activities.

  • Language: Strong command of English.

  • Commitment: Participation in all sessions between January and April 2026.

  • Diversity: Applications encouraged from individuals of varied genders, abilities, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds.

Programme Structure

  • Duration: January – April 2026

  • Format: Fully online, 10 interactive sessions guided by senior EU and Indian experts.

  • Activities: Policy labs, workshops, thematic discussions, and collaborative development of policy recommendations.

  • Outcome: Policy recommendations shared with decision-makers in India and the EU.

How to Apply

  1. Prepare Application Documents:

    • Two-page CV in Europass or EuropeAid format

    • One-page cover letter outlining motivation

    • One-minute video statement

    • Optional professional profile link

  2. Submit Application: Complete submission via the online platform before 7 December 2025.

  3. Selection Process: Applications reviewed, followed by notification of selected participants prior to programme start.

Why This Programme Matters

  • Builds a network of emerging EU-India leaders with global outlooks.

  • Enhances policy knowledge and professional skills in international cooperation.

  • Encourages cross-cultural collaboration and inclusive leadership.

  • Supports the EU’s commitment to youth engagement and sustainable partnerships.

Common Tips for Applicants

  • Highlight relevant academic or professional experience in EU-India cooperation or international policy.

  • Clearly convey motivation and objectives in the cover letter and video statement.

  • Ensure availability for all programme sessions.

  • Emphasize commitment to inclusive collaboration and multidisciplinary engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply? Young professionals under 35 from India or EU Member States with relevant academic or professional experience.
2. What is the programme duration? January – April 2026, with 10 online sessions.
3. Is there a cost to participate? No, participation is completely free.
4. What are the thematic areas? Democracy in the Digital Age, Climate Action, Inclusive Growth, and Geopolitics.
5. What are the application requirements? CV (Europass/EuropeAid), cover letter, one-minute video statement, optional profile link.
6. When is the application deadline? 7 December 2025.
7. What outcomes can participants expect? Development of policy recommendations shared with EU and Indian decision-makers and enhanced international exposure.

Conclusion

The EU-India Young Leaders Exchange Programme 2025-26 provides a unique opportunity for emerging professionals to engage in cross-border dialogue, develop policy insights, and contribute to sustainable collaboration between the EU and India. Selected participants gain mentorship, exposure to high-level stakeholders, and the chance to shape impactful policy recommendations on critical global issues.

For more information, visit European Union.