The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, has announced that applications are open for the 2026 Global Ireland Young Leaders Programme. Launched in 2023, the programme invites Transition Year students in Ireland and Year 11/Year 12 students in Northern Ireland to participate in a three-day immersive experience at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade offices in Dublin. The initiative provides a unique opportunity for young people to gain first-hand insights into Ireland’s foreign policy and diplomacy.
Minister McEntee highlighted that the programme aims to inspire independent and creative thinking among students about Ireland’s role on the global stage. She emphasized that encouraging young people to reflect on international cooperation and foreign policy will help shape a future rooted in collaboration and understanding. The minister also noted the significance of the programme in the context of Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026, underscoring the importance of incorporating youth perspectives into Ireland’s foreign policy objectives.
Successful participants will engage directly with senior officials, diplomats, civil society partners, and Embassy teams, gaining valuable insights into Ireland’s international engagement. The programme will place special focus on Ireland and the European Union, aligning with the country’s eighth term holding the EU Council Presidency from 1 July to 31 December 2026, and offering young leaders a platform to contribute ideas and perspectives on global diplomacy.
