The Young Cultural Diplomacy Forum (YCDF) Bangkok 2025 is a unique platform for emerging leaders, students, peacebuilders, and creatives to delve into the transformative power of culture in global affairs. Hosted by the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy (CSCD), this Training Program offers an exceptional opportunity for youth to develop the intercultural and strategic competencies necessary to shape diplomacy in the 21st century.

Held in the culturally vibrant capital of Thailand, this 3-day forum invites participants from around the world to learn, reflect, and lead through imagination, tradition, and dialogue. Whether you’re a student of international relations, a poet with a vision for peace, or a young leader passionate about global cooperation, this forum offers a space to grow and connect.

Held under the captivating theme “Siam’s Fantasy”, the YCDF Bangkok 2025 showcases how beauty, myth, and creative imagination have shaped Thailand’s role in global cultural diplomacy. It connects art, heritage, diplomacy, and development into a rich learning experience that combines academic discussions with artistic practice, cultural immersion, and leadership development.

This program is ideal for young people who believe in the power of storytelling, music, aesthetics, and ceremony to foster peace and mutual understanding in today’s complex world.

Program Details

Host Country: Thailand
Program Location: Bangkok
Program Dates: July 11–13, 2025
Duration: 3 Days

Program Themes and Focus Areas

The forum features specialized modules designed to examine key elements of Cultural Diplomacy, international strategy, and aesthetic traditions, including:

• Siam’s Fantasy: Myth, Imagination, and Sovereignty

• Public Diplomacy in the 21st Century

• Emotional Economy: The Role of Escapism in the Market Economy

• The Diplomacy of Aesthetics: Craft, Costume, and Ceremony

• Regionalism and Cultural Connectivity in South and Southeast Asia

• From the Ramakien to K-Pop: Storytelling and Cultural Influence

• Zen and Strategy: Spiritual Wisdom in International Relations

These engaging modules are led by experts and artists working at the intersection of culture and policy, designed to provide both academic depth and hands-on experience.

Benefits

Participants of the YCDF Bangkok 2025 will gain access to a multitude of personal and professional development benefits:

• Participation in practical workshops, artistic activities, and group projects

• Opportunities to engage directly with global leaders, cultural experts, and fellow emerging changemakers

• Exposure to real-world case studies in Cultural Diplomacy

• Training in leadership, public speaking, and intercultural communication

• Certificate of participation from the Center for Strategy and Cultural Diplomacy (CSCD)

• Gain insight into global issues through creative tools such as storytelling and performance

• Join a lifelong network of cultural ambassadors and global strategists

• Future internship and collaboration opportunities with CSCD

• Special recognition: One participant will be awarded the title of “Ideal Strategist” and offered a chance to co-develop projects with CSCD

Funding Options:
To ensure accessibility and diversity, the forum offers multiple tiers of funding:

• 5 Fully Funded Seats: Includes participation fees, accommodation, meals, forum merchandise, and possible travel assistance

• 15 Partially Funded Seats: Covers 50% of the program fee

• Self-Funded Option: Open to eligible applicants who wish to invest in their development journey

Eligibility Criteria

This Leadership Program is open to a broad range of global candidates with a passion for intercultural connection and innovation:

• Applicants must be aged between 16 and 45 years old

• Open to high school students, university students, graduates, and early-career professionals

• Proven interest or experience in public diplomacy, creative expression, or intercultural exchange

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Capacity for critical thinking and creative problem-solving

• Commitment to participate actively during and after the forum

• Willingness to become an advocate for global cooperation, cultural diversity, and peaceful dialogue

How to Apply

The application process is straightforward but competitive. Follow these steps to ensure a strong submission:

1. Visit the official website and access the “Apply Now” portal

2. Select the appropriate form: Funded Track or Self-Funded Track

3. Fill in all required personal, academic, and professional details

4. Provide thoughtful and authentic responses to motivation questions

5. Upload any required documents as instructed

6. Submit your completed application before the official deadline

Selection Process:
All applications will be thoroughly reviewed based on:

• Depth and quality of application responses

• Alignment with the forum’s mission and objectives

• Educational background and relevant extracurricular experience

• Evidence of Youth Leadership, social engagement, and community initiatives

• Creative potential and originality of ideas

• Interview performance (if shortlisted for funded tracks)

Application Deadline: June 6, 2025

Due to high interest and limited seats, early application is encouraged. Funded spots are extremely competitive, and late applications will not be accepted.