Are you passionate about space security and eager to share your vision for a safer, more sustainable future in outer space? The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR), in partnership with the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), invites young leaders worldwide to participate in the Outer Space Security Conference 2026 (OS26) Youth Video Competition. This unique opportunity allows you to present your ideas at a global event in Geneva, Switzerland, taking place both in-person and online from 8–9 September 2026.
If you are between 18 and 25 years old, this is your chance to contribute to international discussions, showcase your technical research, and win a fully funded trip to Geneva to present your work to diplomats, experts, and decision-makers in the field of space security.
About the OS26 Youth Video Competition
- Host Country: Switzerland (Geneva) & Online
- Duration: 2 days
- Dates: 8–9 September 2026
- Benefits: Fully funded travel to Geneva, accommodation, per diems, global exposure, and publication opportunities
- Deadline: 21 June 2026
Also Check 1: Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship 2027-28 (Fully Funded Year at Harvard)
Financial Benefits
- Round-trip economy airfare to Geneva, Switzerland
- Accommodation for the duration of the OS26 conference
- Per diems to cover some meals during the event
- Opportunity to present your video at the conference and to a global audience
- Selected videos featured on the UNIDIR website
- Chance to publish a commentary based on your experience and video
Also Check 2: Council of Europe Traineeship 2026-27 (Paid Internship in Europe)
Program Theme
Participants are invited to submit a 1–3 minute original video responding to the following prompt:
How can technical innovations in space system design contribute to a more secure and sustainable outer space environment? Showcase your original research and explain how specific updates to space architecture can address modern security and sustainability challenges. Topics may include shared technical standards, data link integrity, cyber-resilient architecture, transparency, open-source monitoring, and more. The competition encourages you to identify vulnerabilities and propose solutions that support global stability and inclusive space governance.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to individuals from any country
- Age: 18–25 years old
- Background: Young leaders, students, and early-career professionals interested in space security, engineering, science, or related fields
- Requirements:
- Submit a 1–3 minute original video in .mp4 format (with audio, visuals, and subtitles in one file)
- Any language is accepted, but non-English videos must include English closed captions
- Only one submission per person
- Content must be original; generative AI cannot be used for the core narrative, script, or presenter likeness (AI tools may be used for technical visualizations with disclosure)
- Entries must comply with all applicable laws and be free of unlicensed copyrighted material
Also Check 3: UK Winter Fellowship 2027 (Fully Funded AI Governance Program)
How to Apply for the OS26 Youth Video Competition?
To apply, complete the official submission form available on the UNIDIR website before the deadline. Ensure your video meets all technical and eligibility requirements. For more details and to access the application portal, visit the official OS26 Youth Video Competition page.
Yasir is currently a master’s student at Bilkent University on a fully funded scholarship. He has a strong passion for technology, innovation, and creating meaningful impact through digital platforms. Yasir’s goal is to make education more accessible by helping students discover global opportunities and take confident steps toward their future.