Global Future Forum
GFF Baku 2026 brings together global voices to explore how societies can coexist more thoughtfully by strengthening human connection, expanding economic opportunity, and shaping the responsible use of emerging technologies.
- Baku, Azerbaijan
- 8-11 Apr, 2026
- Registrations Open - Deadline to Apply: 20th February 2026
Reimagining the World Ahead: Where leaders, curiosity, and collaboration meet to shape better decisions and meaningful connections
GFF Baku 2026 brings together leaders, strategists, and pioneers from across industries and disciplines to build on the insights of past forums, spark new connections, and drive initiatives that create meaningful, lasting impact.
- Host City: Baku, Azerbaijan 🇦🇿
Where East Meets West
A City Built for Reflection and Dialogue
A New Center for Global Conversations
Following its role as host of COP29, Baku has emerged as a city engaged in global dialogue on sustainability, cooperation, and the future. This momentum makes it a natural setting for conversations that look ahead rather than repeat the past.
Historical Context with Contemporary Relevance
Complementing the Forum Experience
Forum Theme
The Future of Co-Existence
#1
Rebuilding Human Connection in an Age of Isolation
This focus area explores how weakened social bonds, fragmented communities, and declining trust affect not just individuals, but the wellbeing and stability of societies. It invites reflection on how we rebuild meaningful human connections in ways that strengthen cooperation, empathy, and coexistence at a global scale.
#2
Economic Inclusion by promoting Social Entrepreneurship
#3
Advocating Responsible and Ethical AI
What You’ll Experience at GFF Baku
Global
Networking
Connect with peers and pioneers from various countries, shaping the future together.
Dialogues &
Simulations
Take part in interactive discussions and hands-on simulations that explore real global challenges.
Expert
Workshops
Gain insights and skills from global leaders in policy, technology, and innovation.
Real-World Policy Impact
Co-create and endorse resolutions that carry your voice to global institutions.
Cultural Exchange & Exploration
Experience the richness of Baku through curated cultural and social experiences.
Delegate
Stories
Hear directly from our delegates about their journey, insights, and the impact of engaging.
Participation Categories
Funded
- Forum Invitation Letter
- Accommodation for 3 Nights
- Meals and Refreshments
- Airfare support
- GFF Merchandise & Kit
- Forum Materials & Resources
- Certificate of Participation
- Country Representative at GFF
- Local Transport during the Forum
- Networking & collaboration
- Access to the GFF community & Initiatives
- Credits in official publications
- Collaboration, contribution, and involvement beyond the Forum
Self Funded Category
- Confirmed seat at Forum
- Forum Invitation Letter
- Accommodation for 3 Nights
- Meals and Refreshments
- GFF Merchandise & Kit
- Forum Materials & Resources
- Certificate of Participation
- Country Representative at GFF
- Local Transport during the Forum
- Networking & collaboration
- Access to the Global community
- Credits in official publications
Non Accommodation/Local
- Confirmed seat at Forum
- Forum Invitation Letter
- Meals and Refreshments
- GFF Merchandise & Kit
- Forum Materials & Resources
- Certificate of Participation
- Country Representative at GFF
- Local Transport during the Forum
- Networking & collaboration
- Access to the Global community
- Credits in official publications
- Work opportunities with CSEED
Organizations, institutions, and communities are warmly welcomed to participate as delegations, sharing perspectives, exchanging insights, and amplifying collective impact.
Delegation Categories:
- Diplomatic Delegation
- Corporate Delegation
- Academic Delegation
- Group Participation
For details on delegation participation, contact us at contact@thecseed.org
Forum Agenda
Participants arrive, check-in, complete registration, and receive event materials in a welcoming manner.
Opening remarks introducing the forum’s objectives, agenda, and guidelines for participants in a semi-formal setting.
An semi-formal dinner designed to foster connections and discussions among participants in a relaxed setting.
Casual morning convergence in the lobby area after breakfast, allowing participants to connect and prepare for the day’s sessions.
Official start of the day with key announcements and session previews.
Explore how weakened social bonds and fragmented communities impact individuals and societies. Discussions will focus on strategies to strengthen empathy, cooperation, and meaningful connections that foster coexistence and global wellbeing.
Examine how unequal access to opportunities shapes lives and futures, and how social entrepreneurship can serve as one pathway to encourage ethical business practices, expand participation, and embed social responsibility beyond symbolic initiatives.
Midday meal and informal interaction among participants.
Discuss the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in shaping societies. The Focus Area will focus on guiding innovation with ethical principles, accountability, and human values to ensure technology serves inclusive and equitable social outcomes.
A moment to review, share insights, and capture key learnings from the day.
Concluding remarks and a summary of the day’s key outcomes, followed by free time for informal networking or personal exploration.
Morning gathering after breakfast to exchange perspectives and prepare for the day.
Participants present initial viewpoints and session goals in a structured format.
Small-group conversations around key themes, with participants rotating to exchange ideas and perspectives. A dynamic, collaborative space to share insights, learn from others, and explore diverse viewpoints.
An interactive activity designed to spark creativity, collaboration, and dialogue among participants. Engage, share, and explore ideas together in a dynamic and participatory format.
Midday meal offering time for reflection and informal exchanges.
Recognition of participant contributions and presentation of official certifications.
An organized excursion to explore local landmarks and culture.
Morning meal to gather and prepare for the final discussions.
Open conversation to share takeaways, feedback, and next steps.
Closing of the event with farewells.
* This agenda offers a high-level overview of the Forum’s flow and key activities. More details on individual sessions will be shared with confirmed participants, and the schedule remains subject to minor adjustments to enhance the overall program experience.
How to Join
Global Future Forum
Complete the online application form to get started. You may share your experiences, interests, and ideas for making a difference.
Applications are reviewed in the order they’re received, so applying early is encouraged for a smoother process and better overall experience.
- Last Date for Registration: 20th February 2026
Alumni Reflections
Frequently Asked Questions
The Global Future Forum welcomes motivated individuals aged 16 to 45 from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including the social sector, economy, policy, entrepreneurship, enterprise, and education. We are looking for young leaders, emerging professionals, innovators, and changemakers who are passionate about making a positive impact. Open to all nationalities.
The Global Future Forum welcomes motivated individuals aged 16 to 45 from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, including the social sector, economy, policy, entrepreneurship, enterprise, and education. We are looking for young leaders, emerging professionals, innovators, and changemakers who are passionate about making a positive impact. Open to all nationalities.
The application fee supports the administrative and evaluation processes. It helps cover the operational costs of reviewing applications, coordinating independent assessments, and maintaining the integrity and fairness of the selection process. As these processes begin immediately after submission, the application fee is non-refundable and ensures that every application receives thoughtful consideration within a structured and credible framework.
GFF offers two primary participation pathways:
Application for Scholarships for individuals seeking funded or partially funded participation through the selection process.
Forum Delegate Participation, for those who choose to confirm their seat directly and join the Forum through the self-funded pathway.
Both pathways offer full access to the Global Future Forum experience, including all sessions, discussions, and engagement opportunities.
Scholarships at GFF are designed to support promising individuals by reducing financial barriers to participation. They reflect recognition of potential, perspective, and alignment with the Forum’s values, while maintaining shared responsibility between participants and the organization.
Scholarship support may include:
- Accommodation during the Forum
- Airfare Support
- Conference Fee
- Meals on official Forum days
- Full access to Forum sessions and activities
- Local transportation related to Forum activities
Specific details are shared with selected participants at the time of offer.
Applications are reviewed holistically, with an emphasis on ideas, intent, and authenticity rather than polished language or formal experience.
We encourage applicants to express themselves honestly, clear thinking and a genuine perspective matter more than perfect grammar or curated responses. For a detailed explanation of the review process, please see our
Scholarship Application Guide
GFF follows a merit-based selection process designed to ensure fairness, diversity, and meaningful participation. Applications are first reviewed for completeness and eligibility, followed by an evaluation based on social impact, leadership potential, alignment with the Forum’s themes and vision, and personal initiative.
For this edition, GFF offers 5 fully funded seats and 50 partially funded seats through the application process. Every application is reviewed thoughtfully, with care taken to represent diverse regions, backgrounds, and perspectives.
No. Prior forum experience is not required, and perfect English is not expected.
What we value most is curiosity, openness, and the willingness to engage thoughtfully with global issues and diverse perspectives.
Yes. Participants may choose direct delegate participation, which allows them to confirm their place at the Forum without going through the scholarship review process.
This option includes full access to all Forum sessions, activities, and participant benefits.
Yes. Participants may choose direct delegate participation, which allows them to confirm their place at the Forum without going through the scholarship review process.
This option includes full access to all Forum sessions, activities, and participant benefits.
Yes. GFF welcomes institutional and organizational delegations and has hosted such groups in previous editions.
Organizations interested in sending a delegation are encouraged to contact us with details, and our team will assist accordingly:
For details on delegation participation, contact us at contact@thecseed.org
GFF is built around experiential learning, dialogue, and connection.
Participants engage in interactive sessions, facilitated discussions, and collaborative spaces designed to encourage reflection, shared understanding, and long-term relationships. The Forum aims to foster a global community that continues beyond the event itself.
Yes. All participants receive an official Diploma of Participation.
Additional supporting documents can be provided upon request where required.
GFF provides official Forum invitation letters to assist participants with the visa application process.
Please note that visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant authorities, and obtaining a visa remains the participant’s responsibility.
GFF is guided by three core values: Inclusivity, Integrity, and Resilience.
It is not just a conference, but a space where ideas, identities, and experiences intersect. The Forum emphasizes meaningful interaction over formality, shared learning over hierarchy, and long-term impact over short-term visibility. GFF reflects a world we imagine together and the change we create through collective dialogue and experience.
You can stay connected with the Global Future Forum by following us on our official social media platforms and communication channels.