Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future 2026/2027

Applications are open for Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future 2026/2027, a fully funded seven-day youth exchange programme that will take selected participants to Japan for an academic and cultural learning experience.

The programme is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) in partnership with the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) under the MIRAI Programme. It is designed to strengthen mutual understanding between Japan and the Western Balkans while helping young people learn about peacebuilding, reconciliation, regional cooperation and Japanese society.

About the Programme

Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future is an international youth exchange organized under the MIRAI Programme, which has been running since 2018.

The programme aims to create stronger connections between young people from Japan and the Western Balkans through academic discussions, cultural activities and direct exposure to Japan's approaches to peacebuilding and international cooperation.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn about Japanese society and policies while exploring themes connected to reconciliation, conflict resolution, regional cooperation and intercultural understanding.

The programme is also intended to help participants become active promoters of peace and cooperation in their own communities after returning home.

Programme Benefits

The funding includes:

• Round-trip international economy-class airfare to Japan.
• Overseas travel insurance.
• Accident insurance.
• Accommodation in Japan.
• Transportation within Japan during the programme.
• Meals during the official programme.
• Admission fees for scheduled activities.
• Participation in academic and cultural activities.
• Opportunities to meet other young people from the Western Balkans.
• Exposure to Japanese approaches to peacebuilding and reconciliation.
• International networking and intercultural learning.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the programme's requirements to be considered.

Candidates must:

• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate or PhD programme in the Western Balkans.
• Be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
• Live in one of the Western Balkan societies covered by the programme.
• Hold a passport issued by one of the six eligible Western Balkan societies.
• Have a good command of English.
• Have a valid passport.
• Demonstrate good academic performance.
• Show evidence of social activism or community involvement.
• Be interested in sharing information about Japan and its attractions through different communication channels.
• Respect the principles of reconciliation and cooperation in the Western Balkans.
• Not have previously participated in an exchange or similar programme organized by the Government of Japan.
• Not have previously lived in Japan.

Eligible Countries

The programme is open to students from the following Western Balkan societies:

• Albania
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kosovo
• Montenegro
• North Macedonia
• Serbia

Applicants must live in the Western Balkans and hold a passport issued by one of the eligible WB6 societies.

What Participants Will Learn

The programme focuses on more than tourism. Participants will engage with academic and cultural activities designed to deepen their understanding of Japan and its approach to international cooperation.

Key areas include:

• Peacebuilding
• Reconciliation
• Regional cooperation
• Conflict resolution
• Intercultural dialogue
• Japanese society and culture
• International cooperation
• Youth engagement
• Global citizenship

The programme gives participants an opportunity to compare experiences from the Western Balkans with Japan's own historical and contemporary approaches to peace and cooperation.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the information and documents requested through the official application form.

Applicants should also be ready to demonstrate:

• Current student status.
• Citizenship and eligibility.
• Academic achievements.
• Social or community engagement.
• English-language ability.
• Interest in Japan.
• Relevant experience in reconciliation, peacebuilding, regional cooperation or intercultural learning, where applicable.

How to Apply

Interested students should:

1. Confirm that they meet all eligibility requirements.
2. Review the official programme information.
3. Prepare the required personal, academic and supporting information.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.
6. If shortlisted, prepare for the September interview.
7. Successful applicants should then complete the necessary travel and visa arrangements.

Applicants should submit their applications early rather than waiting until the final hours.