As part of the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee and in the framework of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme, the Republic of Korea, through the Korea Heritage Service (KHS) and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO (KNCU), will host the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 from 13 to 21 July 2026, under the theme World Heritage, Communities and Education: Empowering Youth as Agents of Change.

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The Forum will combine thematic discussions, workshops, group work and site visits at World Heritage properties in the Republic of Korea. Participants are expected to arrive on 12 July 2026 and depart on 21/22 July 2026. All related expenses for the duration of the Forum (international travel in economy class, accommodation, local transportation, meals and visa fees, where applicable) will be covered by the organizers. The organizers will also assist in the travel preparations and will provide support to the participants who need a visa.

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If any participant wishes to extend his/her stay after 21 July 2026, all related costs will be covered by the participant. In such a case, the host country should be informed in advance, in order to make all the necessary arrangements.

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The Forum aims to strengthen the commitment, skills and engagement of young professionals involved in the protection, management and safeguarding of natural and cultural World Heritage sites. It will place particular emphasis on community participation, education and learning, and the active role of youth in shaping strategies for the conservation and enhancement of World Heritage.

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Through exchanges with local and international experts, and through a combination of presentations, discussions, collaborative working sessions and site-based learning at World Heritage properties in the Republic of Korea, participants will collectively explore how communities, youth and education can contribute to informed decision-making, inclusive governance and sustainable management of World Heritage. At the end of the Forum, the young professionals will present their Declaration to the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee.

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Applications must be submitted through the online application form by 15 March 2026 at 23:59 CET

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For any questions, kindly contact: wh-ypf@unesco.org

Applicants to the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2026 should meet the following criteria:

• Age: Between 23 and 32 years (born between 1994 and 2003 inclusive);
• Professional profile: Young professionals and practitioners engaged in one or more of the following areas:
  • Education and teaching in formal learning settings;
  • World Heritage site management;
  • Research and innovation related to World Heritage
  • Work within NGOs or community-level associations focused on World Heritage;
• Engagement: Demonstrated involvement in activities related to World Heritage;
• Motivation: Strong interest in contributing to discussions on youth, communities and education;
• Availability: Full availability for the entire duration of the Forum;
• Language: Proficiency in English, as the Forum will be conducted exclusively in English.

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In addition, the selection process will seek to ensure: Balanced geographical representation; - Gender equality; Diversity of professional backgrounds; Potential for knowledge-sharing and impact after the Forum.