International Youth Conference 13 (IYC13)
May 21–24, 2026 | Los Angeles, California
Theme: Innovative Diplomacy: Youth Advancing Peace and Security
The 13th International Youth Conference (IYC13), organized by the International Organization of Youth (IOY) and hosted in Los Angeles, is a global platform bringing together youth leaders, policymakers, academics, and practitioners from around the world to advance innovative, youth-led approaches to peace, security, and diplomacy.
Building on the legacy of previous editions hosted at UCLA, IYC13 will convene participants to engage in dialogue, skill-building, and collaborative action aligned with the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The conference emphasizes practical diplomacy, grassroots leadership, and meaningful youth participation in multilateral and policy processes.
IYC13 will feature a distinguished group of speakers, including diplomats, representatives of international organizations, civil society leaders, academics, and youth innovators working across peacebuilding, governance, human rights, and global cooperation. The conference will foster cross-regional exchange, networking, and partnerships that extend beyond the event itself.
Registration
Register to attend IYC13: https://www.ioyforyouth.org/programs/international-youth-conference
Key Topics of Discussion
- Youth, Peace and Security (YPS)
- Innovative Diplomacy and Multilateral Engagement
- Conflict Prevention and Grassroots Peacebuilding
- Public, Cultural, and Sports Diplomacy
- Governance, Human Rights, and Inclusive Institutions
- Digital Innovation, Media, and Global Engagement
- Youth Leadership, Advocacy, and Policy Influence
Conference Outcomes
- A Youth-Led Draft Resolution on peace, security, and inclusion for engagement with the United Nations and Member States
- Youth Diplomacy Labs and practical skill-building sessions
- A Global Network of Young Diplomats and Peacebuilders
Youth-Led Grassroots Projects advancing peace and security at the community level
International Organization of Youth (IOY)
In Collaboration With
- United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of San Diego (USD)
- Los Angeles County Department of Youth Development
- United Nations Association of UCLA (UNA-UCLA)
- IAAI Glocha
- Additional institutional and multilateral partners
Speaker Applications
Are you working in diplomacy, peacebuilding, governance, or youth leadership and interested in contributing to IYC13?
Apply to be a speaker: https://www.iycforyouth.org/speaker-interest/
To attend the launch event or for more information about IYC13, please visit the IYC website.
