Call for Applications: World Food Forum Youth Policy Board 2026–2027

The World Food Forum (WFF) has opened applications for the 2026–2027 cohort of the Youth Policy Board (YPB). This is a unique opportunity for young leaders committed to agrifood systems transformation, global youth governance, sustainability, and policy advocacy. Selected participants will play a strategic leadership role within the WFF Youth Assembly throughout the term.

What is the WFF Youth Policy Board?

The Youth Policy Board (YPB) is the governing body of the WFF Youth Assembly. It is composed of young change-makers from diverse regions who work together to ensure youth perspectives shape agrifood policies and global decision-making processes. The YPB leads consultations, prepares advocacy outcomes, engages in intergovernmental forums, and drives youth-inclusive policy development.

The WFF operates as a global initiative under the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), designed to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems through youth-led action, innovation, and partnership-building.

Role and Responsibilities

YPB members contribute across three core areas:

1. Regional Engagement

• Lead regional dialogues and youth policy consultations.

• Work with FAO regional offices, National Youth Chapters and partner networks.

• Develop regional youth priorities and compendia.

• Advocate at international policy events and UN platforms.

2. Thematic Leadership

• Conduct thematic consultations on key agrifood governance issues.

• Develop outcome documents and youth policy positions.

• Collaborate with FAO technical divisions and youth stakeholders.

3. Youth Participation

• Strengthen youth engagement across the WFF Youth Initiative.

• Support Global Youth Action Plan (GYAP) implementation.

• Build intergenerational dialogue and partnerships.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Preference is given to applicants with demonstrated experience in youth engagement, community policy processes, or underrepresented stakeholder groups, including Indigenous Peoples, women, and smallholder farmers.

Application and Selection Process

The recruitment process consists of four stages:

1. Apply here: https://youth.world-food-forum.org/youth-assembly/youth-policy-board/form/en 

2. Screening by the WFF Secretariat for eligibility and experience.

3. Youth organization panel review and shortlisting.

4. Outgoing YPB cohort evaluation of leadership potential and policy knowledge.

5. Final interviews and ranking of top candidates.

The final list of selected youth leaders will be announced by 30 April 2026.

Term of Service

YPB members serve a one-year renewable term and are expected to commit 25 hours per month. The structure includes 20 hours for core responsibilities (regional or thematic work) and 5 hours for cross-cutting participation. Members may optionally contribute to WFF programmes such as:

Application Deadline

Deadline: 15 November 2025 at 23:59 (CET, Rome time)

Before applying, candidates must review the full Terms of Reference:
https://youth.world-food-forum.org/docs/devworldfoodforumlibraries/track-youth-assembly/ypb-tors-2025-2026.pdf

Apply here: https://youth.world-food-forum.org/youth-assembly/youth-policy-board/form/en 

AI Use Policy

Applicants may use AI tools to support drafting their responses. However:

• Submissions must be fact-checked and reviewed by the applicant.

• Content cannot be copied and pasted without human oversight.

• Authenticity, originality and accuracy are required.

• AI assistance must be disclosed in the application.

Data Protection and Consent

Personal data submitted through the application form will be handled in accordance with FAO’s Data Protection and Privacy Notice. Data may be shared within FAO for coordination and programme implementation. Applicants may request data access, correction, or deletion through the FAO Service Now portal.

For questions, contact: [email protected]

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