AK Travels Limited

Applications are now open for the UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2026 Youth Video Competition, an international opportunity organized by the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) in partnership with the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI).

This global competition gives young people an opportunity to contribute directly to international discussions on the future of space security while competing for a fully funded trip to Geneva, Switzerland.

Selected winners will attend the Outer Space Security Conference 2026, which will take place on 8-9 September 2026 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, where they will present their work to diplomats, technical experts, academics, military officials, industry leaders, and policymakers.

Summary

• Opportunity Name: UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2026 Youth Video Competition
• Host Organization: United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
• Partner Organization: Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI)
• Host Country: Switzerland
• Conference Location: Geneva, Switzerland
• Conference Dates: 8-9 September 2026
• Opportunity Type: International Youth Video Competition
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Eligible Nationalities: All Countries
• Age Requirement: 18-25 years old
• Submission Format: 1-3 minute original video
• Application Deadline: 21 June 2026

About the Opportunity

UNIDIR launched this competition to encourage meaningful youth participation in global conversations surrounding outer space security.

The initiative seeks innovative ideas from the next generation of engineers, researchers, scientists, and problem-solvers who can contribute to maintaining outer space as a secure, peaceful, and sustainable environment for all humankind.

The competition specifically aims to:

• Promote youth engagement in global space security discussions
• Showcase diverse perspectives on the future of space security
• Encourage young leaders to contribute to inclusive space governance

Competition Theme

Participants are required to create a video based on this year’s challenge.

Applicants are invited to showcase their original research and explain how innovations in space systems and space architecture can contribute to a more secure and sustainable outer space environment.

UNIDIR is particularly interested in technical solutions that address evolving security threats affecting space assets.

Examples mentioned by the organizers include:

• Shared technical standards
• Cyber-resilient space architecture
• Integrity of data links
• Transparency-enhancing designs
• Open-source monitoring frameworks
• Other technical innovations that improve global stability in outer space

Fully Funded Benefits

Winning participants will receive:

• A fully funded trip to Geneva, Switzerland
• Round-trip economy airfare
• Accommodation during the conference period
• Per diem support for selected meals
• Opportunity to attend the Outer Space Security Conference 2026 in person
• Opportunity to present their videos before an international audience
• Videos featured on UNIDIR platforms

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 25 years old
• Be from any country worldwide
• Submit only one entry
• Submit an original video
• Focus on technical innovations related to space security and sustainability

Video Requirements

The official competition requirements include:

• Video length must be between 1 and 3 minutes
• The submission must be original work
• Videos not spoken in English must include English closed captions
• Videos should explain how technical innovations can contribute to safer and more sustainable outer space systems

AI Usage Policy

UNIDIR does not permit generative AI to create the core narrative, script, or presenter identity.

AI tools may only be used for technical visualizations such as:

• Technical animations
• Schematics
• Conceptual design renderings

Any AI usage must be disclosed in the submission form. Fully AI-generated videos will be disqualified.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1

Create an original video between 1 and 3 minutes.

Step 2

Build your video around your own research or technical ideas that improve space security and sustainability.

Step 3

Ensure your submission addresses vulnerabilities in current space systems and proposes realistic solutions.

Step 4

Add English closed captions if your video is produced in another language.

Step 5

Complete the official submission form before the deadline.

Step 6

Submit your entry no later than 21 June 2026.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 21 June 2026
• Conference Dates: 8-9 September 2026
• Conference Venue: Palais des Nations, Geneva, Switzerland

Related Opportunities

• Civic Youth Forum 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark
• China Youth Summit 2026 in Shenzhen, China
• Youth Empowerment Forum 2026 in Switzerland

Official Application Link

Final Note from AK Travels LTD

The UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2026 is a unique opportunity for young innovators who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, policy, and global security. Since this is a technical competition, applicants should focus on presenting practical and evidence-based ideas rather than generic concepts.

At AK Travels LTD, we encourage applicants to begin working on their videos early to allow enough time for research, scripting, editing, and final submission before the deadline.

Website: http://www.aktravelsltd.com