YSP Global Policy Brief Competition 2026 (Global Writing Competition for Young Policy Leaders)

Applications are now open for the Youth for Sustainable Policy (YSP) Global Policy Brief Competition 2026, an international writing competition that invites young people to develop evidence-based policy recommendations addressing climate and energy challenges. Organized by Youth for Sustainable Policy (YSP), the competition provides aspiring policy professionals, students, researchers, and young leaders with an opportunity to showcase their analytical abilities while contributing innovative ideas to global sustainability discussions.

The YSP Policy Brief Competition serves as the organization's flagship global writing initiative under its Research & Policy and Environment programmes. Participants are expected to prepare concise, research-backed policy briefs that critically examine an existing climate or energy policy and propose practical recommendations for improvement. Rather than writing academic essays, applicants are encouraged to produce professional policy documents that communicate clear, evidence-based solutions for policymakers and decision-makers.

The competition aims to strengthen young people's policy analysis, research, and communication skills while providing recognition, publication opportunities, and pathways to deeper engagement with YSP's global network of sustainability advocates. Whether participants are beginning their policy journey or already pursuing studies in governance, economics, environmental science, or international development, the competition offers valuable exposure and an opportunity to build a strong professional portfolio.

About the Competition

Youth for Sustainable Policy (YSP) is a global youth-led initiative dedicated to empowering young people to engage meaningfully with sustainability, governance, and public policy. Through research programmes, educational initiatives, and collaborative projects, YSP encourages youth to transform innovative ideas into practical policy solutions capable of addressing today's most pressing environmental and social challenges.

The Global Policy Brief Competition is designed to introduce participants to the practical process of policy development. Instead of focusing on theoretical discussions, entrants are challenged to evaluate existing public policies, identify weaknesses or implementation gaps, and propose realistic recommendations supported by credible research and evidence.

Competition Benefits

Selected participants and outstanding submissions will enjoy several benefits, including:

• Opportunity to publish outstanding policy briefs through YSP.
• International recognition for exceptional submissions.
• Enhanced academic and professional portfolio.
• Practical experience in policy research and analysis.
• Improved policy writing and communication skills.
• Exposure to global sustainability discussions.
• Opportunity to showcase innovative policy ideas.
• Increased visibility within international youth policy networks.
• Potential opportunities for future engagement with YSP programmes.
• Valuable experience that strengthens scholarship, internship, and graduate school applications.

Competition Theme

The 2026 edition focuses on climate and energy policy. Participants are expected to prepare policy briefs that:

• Evaluate an existing climate policy.
• Examine current energy policies.
• Identify policy implementation challenges.
• Present evidence-based recommendations.
• Propose realistic and actionable improvements.
• Support sustainable development goals.
• Promote environmental sustainability.

Eligibility Criteria

The competition is open to applicants worldwide who meet the following requirements:

• Be between 16 and 30 years of age.
• Have an interest in sustainability, governance, public policy, climate, or energy issues.
• Submit an original policy brief.
• Be willing to conduct independent research.
• Comply with all competition guidelines and submission requirements.

The competition includes two participation categories:

• Junior Category: Secondary and high school students.
• Open Category: University students, recent graduates, and young professionals.

Submission Requirements

Participants should prepare:

• A completed online application.
• An original policy brief.
• Supporting research and evidence where appropriate.
• Any additional information requested during the submission process.

Selection Criteria

Submissions will generally be assessed based on:

• Quality of policy analysis.
• Strength of research and supporting evidence.
• Originality of ideas.
• Practicality of recommendations.
• Clarity of writing.
• Structure and organization.
• Overall contribution to sustainable policy discussions.

How to Apply

To apply for the YSP Global Policy Brief Competition 2026:

1. Visit the official YSP competition application portal.
2. Carefully review the competition guidelines.
3. Select the appropriate competition category.
4. Prepare your policy brief according to the submission requirements.
5. Complete the online application form.
6. Upload your policy brief and any required information.
7. Submit your application before the application deadline.