Apply for the 2027 Young Strategists Forum by the German Marshall Fund of the United States: A Global Fellowship for Emerging Strategic Leaders in Indo-Pacific Security ·Pacific Security

The 2027 Young Strategists Forum (YSF) by the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) is now accepting applications from emerging leaders who are interested in strengthening their strategic thinking skills and contributing to discussions on international security, diplomacy, and global affairs.

The Young Strategists Forum is a prestigious leadership development program designed to prepare the next generation of strategic thinkers for a world facing increasingly complex geopolitical challenges, limited resources, and evolving security dynamics. The program provides participants with a unique platform to engage with experts, policymakers, diplomats, academics, and fellow emerging leaders from across the world.

Funded by and conducted in partnership with the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, the program focuses on strategic issues surrounding the United States-Japan alliance and security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. Through intensive learning activities, simulations, expert discussions, and networking opportunities, participants gain practical experience in analyzing international challenges and developing innovative policy solutions.

About the Young Strategists Forum

Since its establishment in March 2012, the Young Strategists Forum has developed into a highly respected platform for cultivating future foreign policy and security leaders. The program has created a strong international network of professionals who continue to influence policy discussions and strategic decision-making in their respective fields.

The fellowship is built around the idea that today’s global challenges require leaders who can think strategically, collaborate across borders, and understand the connections between security, economics, technology, and diplomacy.

The 2027 edition will continue this mission by bringing together talented professionals from different sectors and regions to examine emerging geopolitical issues and explore pathways toward international cooperation.

Program Focus: Strategy, Competition, and Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific

The Young Strategists Forum places significant emphasis on the changing security environment in the Indo-Pacific region. Participants will explore major global issues affecting international relations, including:

• The future of the United States-Japan alliance
• Regional security challenges in the Indo-Pacific
• International cooperation and strategic competition
• The role of emerging leaders in shaping foreign policy
• Long-term approaches to global stability and security

The program encourages participants to understand complex global issues from multiple perspectives and develop strategic approaches to addressing international challenges.

Fellowship Activities and Program Format

The Young Strategists Forum provides a comprehensive learning experience combining academic discussions, practical exercises, and professional networking.

Selected participants will take part in activities including:

1. Expert Lectures and Strategic Discussions

Participants engage with leading experts, academics, diplomats, and policymakers who provide insights into international affairs, security policy, and strategic decision-making.

2. 36-Hour Simulation Exercise

One of the central components of the program is an intensive simulation exercise designed to challenge participants’ analytical skills, teamwork abilities, and strategic decision-making under pressure.

Through this exercise, participants experience realistic policy scenarios and develop solutions to complex international problems.

3. Meetings with Global Leaders

Participants have opportunities to interact with:

• Policymakers
• Diplomats
• Senior journalists
• Leading academics
• Strategic experts

These discussions allow fellows to gain firsthand perspectives on global affairs and leadership challenges.

4. Study Tour Experience

The program also includes a study tour featuring visits to important institutions, including a military facility, allowing participants to gain practical understanding of security and defense issues.

Who Can Apply for the Young Strategists Forum?

The program is open to emerging leaders between the ages of 28 and 42 who demonstrate professional experience and interest in strategic issues.

Eligible applicants may include:

• Academics
• Journalists
• Policymakers
• Politicians
• Business professionals
• Military officers

Applicants should demonstrate leadership potential, professional achievement, and an interest in international affairs, security, and strategic policy discussions.

Eligible Countries and Regions

The fellowship welcomes applicants from:

• The United States
• European countries
• Japan
• Other like-minded Asian countries

The program aims to build a diverse international network of professionals who can collaborate across regions and contribute to global strategic discussions.

Benefits of Participating in the Young Strategists Forum

Successful participants will gain several valuable opportunities, including:

1. Leadership Development

Participants strengthen their ability to analyze complex challenges, develop strategic solutions, and lead discussions on international issues.

2. Global Professional Network

The fellowship connects participants with a global community of emerging leaders, experts, policymakers, and alumni working in strategic fields.

Since its creation, 162 individuals have participated in the Young Strategists Forum, with many alumni advancing into influential positions within their professions.

3. Exposure to International Policy Discussions

Participants gain direct exposure to discussions involving global security, diplomacy, foreign policy, and international cooperation.

4. Practical Strategic Skills

Through simulations and expert-led sessions, fellows develop practical skills in:

• Strategic analysis
• Decision-making
• Policy development
• International collaboration
• Crisis management

5. Access to a Prestigious Alumni Network

Graduates become part of a growing network of professionals who continue engaging in global policy discussions and strategic initiatives.

Application Deadline

The application process for the 2027 Young Strategists Forum has two important deadlines:

• New registrations must be completed by Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 11:59 AM ET / 17:59 CEST.
• Completed applications must be submitted by Friday, August 14, 2026, at 11:59 AM ET / 17:59 CEST.

Applications submitted after these deadlines will not be accepted.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official application portal:

APPLY HERE

Applicants experiencing login or application issues can contact the program team through the provided contact information:
JPallanch@gmfus.org

Final Thoughts

The Young Strategists Forum represents a valuable opportunity for emerging leaders who want to expand their understanding of global security challenges and develop the strategic skills needed in today’s rapidly changing world.

By combining expert discussions, simulations, international networking, and leadership development, the fellowship equips participants with the knowledge and connections needed to contribute meaningfully to future policy conversations.

Professionals interested in international affairs, diplomacy, security studies, and strategic leadership are encouraged to prepare their applications before the deadline.

For more information about this opportunity, click here.

Discover more Global Fellowship Opportunities here.