2026 Call for applications

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We welcome applications for the following session formats:

1. Panels (Hybrid) – 16 Sessions

Engaging discussions on critical peace-related topics designed to foster dialogue among experts and stakeholders. Audience interaction through Q&A sessions is highly encouraged.

• Location: Geneva International Conference Center (CICG) | 100 seats per event

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Format: Hybrid (on-site & online)

Should you wish to apply for a panel, please read carefully the following information.

2. Workshops (In-Person) – 8 Sessions

Interactive sessions designed to develop practical skills and strategies. Led by practitioners, these workshops focus on interactivity, group work, and knowledge exchange. Speaker contributions should not exceed 30% of the session time.

• Location: Geneva International Conference Center (CICG) | 40 seats per event

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Format: on-site 

Should you wish to apply for an on-site workshop, please read carefully the following information. 

3. Workshops (Online) – 4 Sessions

Virtual workshops with the same interactive format as in-person sessions. Priority will be given to non-Geneva-based organisations.

• Location: Zoom session

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Format: online

Should you wish to apply for an online workshop, please read carefully the following information.

4. Documentary Screenings – 4 Sessions

Screenings of peace-related documentaries followed by a moderated discussion. Each session includes 60 minutes of screening and 30 minutes of discussion.

• Location: Geneva International Conference Center (CICG)

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Format: on-site

• Submissions must include a trailer or preview link to the film.

Should you wish to apply for a documentary screening, please read carefully the following information. 

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

To ensure high-quality and impactful sessions, proposals must meet the following criteria:

1. Alignment with the 2026 Thematic Direction

Proposed sessions must clearly align with priorities of the Geneva Peace Forum 2026. Applicants should demonstrate how their session contributes meaningfully to this thematic focus. Learn more about the Thematic Direction here. 

2. Clearly Defined Objectives

Proposals must be concise and to the point, clearly stating the purpose, intentions, and objectives of the session. They should articulate the expected outcomes and explain how the session will contribute to peacebuilding policy, practice, dialogue, or innovation.

3. Diversity and Inclusivity

Each event may include up to four speakers representing diverse sectors (e.g. international organizations, NGOs, academia, governments, and the private sector).

Organisers are expected to ensure inclusive and balanced representation in speaker selection, including:

• Gender balance

• Intergenerational perspectives

• Geographic diversity

• Experts and field-based practitioners

Applicants should clearly indicate which speakers are confirmed and which are tentative and have been approached.

4. Collaborative Approach

Each event must have:

• One Swiss or Geneva-based Lead Organiser

• At least one other co-organisation and up to four co-organisers (including international partners)

5. Event Format Requirements

Organisers are required to select one of the pre-established event formats when submitting their proposal. Available formats include panel discussions, documentary screenings, in-person and online workshops. Each format is designed to support specific types of engagement and outcomes.

Applicants must ensure that their proposed session adheres to the guidelines and requirements associated with the selected format, including the structure, level of interaction, and logistical considerations.