St. Gallen Symposium Global Essay Competition Opens for 2026, Inviting Bold Ideas on Global Collisions

Applications are now open for the prestigious St. Gallen Symposium Global Essay Competition. The deadline for submissions is February 1, 2026. This contest invites graduate and postgraduate students worldwide to propose solutions to pressing global issues. Winners will secure a spot at the renowned symposium in Switzerland.

The competition offers a unique platform for young leaders to engage with top business and political figures. It aims to bridge the gap between generations of leaders. According to Reuters, such initiatives are crucial for fostering international dialogue.

Eligibility and Prize Details for Aspiring Leaders

To qualify, applicants must be enrolled in a graduate or postgraduate program. They must have been born in 1996 or later. All submitted work must be original and created individually for the contest.

The prize pool totals CHF 20,000, distributed among the three winners. The winners will also receive a coveted invitation to the St. Gallen Symposium. There, they will present their ideas to an audience of 600 senior leaders.

Navigating the 2026 Topic and Submission Rules

This year’s essay topic focuses on the collision of technology, politics, and demography. Applicants must select a real-world case where at least two of these forces intersect. The goal is to propose a bold idea that maximizes benefits and minimizes long-term risks.

The use of auxiliary aids, including AI tools, is permitted but must be fully disclosed. All sources must be properly cited. The organizing committee conducts rigorous plagiarism checks on all entries. Failure to transparently cite any aid will result in immediate disqualification.

The St. Gallen Symposium Global Essay Competition represents a premier opportunity for the world’s brightest students. It challenges them to develop actionable solutions for complex global disruptions. This initiative continues to shape the next generation of thought leaders.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the St. Gallen Symposium?

The St. Gallen Symposium is a major annual conference for global leaders. It facilitates dialogue between established senior leaders and the next generation. The event is held in St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Who can apply for the Global Essay Competition?

The competition is open to graduate and postgraduate students of any discipline. Applicants must be born in 1996 or later. They must be currently enrolled in a university program.

What is the total prize money for winners?

The total prize money awarded is CHF 20,000. This sum is split among the three competition winners. Financial rewards are paired with an all-expenses-paid trip to the symposium.

Can I use AI to help write my essay?

Yes, but with strict transparency rules. Any use of AI tools must be declared in an auxiliary aids directory. Failure to properly cite such aids will lead to disqualification.

What documents are needed for the application?

Applicants need a copy of their passport, confirmation of university enrollment, and their anonymized essay file. The enrollment proof must be valid as of February 1, 2026.