World Food Forum Launches 2026 Youth Assembly Partner Drive for Food System Change

The World Food Forum (WFF) is seeking organizational partners for its 2026 Youth Assembly. The call for applications is open now with a deadline of January 15, 2026. This initiative aims to institutionalize collaboration with expert groups. The goal is to empower young people in transforming global agrifood systems.

Partner organizations will work directly with the WFF Youth Assembly Secretariat and its Youth Policy Board (YPB). According to information from the WFF, selected partners will help design and deliver impactful sessions. This program is a cornerstone of the forum’s strategy to center youth voices in critical policy discussions.

Partner Roles and Strategic Impact on Youth-Led Policy

Partner organizations will have clear, actionable responsibilities. They must collaborate on planning and executing Youth Assembly sessions. Providing technical expertise and resources for selected themes is also a core duty.

These groups will help design interactive consultations that resonate with young audiences. They are tasked with nominating qualified speakers and moderators. A key deliverable is supporting the creation of youth-led policy recommendations.

The strategic impact is significant. This partnership model ensures sessions are genuinely youth-driven. It directly feeds youth priorities into major intergovernmental policy processes. The collaboration aims to create lasting structural change in how food systems are governed.

Eligibility Criteria and Broadening the Advocacy Network

Eligibility for the partner program is specific. Organizations must have a global or regional scope and demonstrated expertise. A proven track record in agrifood systems, climate, or development is essential.

Commitment to youth engagement is non-negotiable. Each partner must allocate dedicated staff to work with the WFF youth teams. Alignment with the WFF’s core values of integrity and collaboration is required.

This move broadens the advocacy network for sustainable food systems. It connects established organizations with the forum’s powerful youth platform. The long-term effect could be a more inclusive and innovative approach to solving food security challenges.

The success of this WFF Youth Assembly partner program hinges on attracting diverse, expert organizations. Their collaboration will be vital for channeling youth innovation into tangible global food policy. The January 2026 deadline sets the stage for this important coalition-building effort.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main goal of the WFF Youth Assembly Partner program?

The main goal is to formalize partnerships with expert organizations. These partners help design youth-led sessions and consultations. The aim is to generate actionable policy ideas for agrifood systems transformation.

Who is eligible to apply as a partner organization?

Global or regional organizations with proven expertise can apply. They must have a track record in relevant areas like food systems or climate. A strong commitment to youth empowerment is a mandatory requirement.

What are the key deliverables for partner organizations?

Partners must help develop session plans and identify speakers. They are also responsible for designing youth engagement strategies. A crucial deliverable is advising on the creation of a summary report with policy outcomes.

How does this program benefit youth participants?

It ensures sessions are co-created with and for young people. It provides access to expert networks and resources. Most importantly, it creates a direct pipeline for youth ideas to reach policymakers.

What is the application deadline for the 2026 program?

The deadline for applications is January 15, 2026. The call for partners is currently open. Interested organizations should prepare their submissions accordingly.