International Youth Economic Forum 2026 in Geneva: Education, Financial Literacy and the Future of Young People
On 31 October 2026, Geneva will host the International Youth Economic Forum (IYEF 2026), an international forum focused on developing human potential, modern education, financial literacy and the challenges of the future job market.
How is technology changing the world of work? What skills will young people need in the future? How can we manage our money responsibly and make informed decisions when the future is uncertain?
These questions will be at the heart of IYEF 2026. The forum will bring together young people, educators, experts and professionals to share experiences and explore solutions to the challenges facing our world today.
The forum will pay special attention to opportunities for Ukrainian teenagers who, because of the war, are continuing their education and building their futures abroad. Access to quality education, practical knowledge and international professional networks can help young people reach their full potential and make more confident decisions about their education and future careers.
Practical Knowledge and a Dialogue on the Future of the Economy
The forum programme will combine expert discussions, conversations with young people and practical learning. Key topics will include changes in the job market, the skills young people will need in the future, the role of education in preparing the next generation, and the importance of financial literacy in everyday life.
One of the highlights will be the 3rd International Financial Literacy Tournament, FinGameGlobal. During the tournament, participants will take part in the “Life Capital” economic simulation. This will give them the opportunity to practise making financial decisions, evaluate the outcomes and develop their economic thinking.
The forum will also provide an opportunity to discuss how educational institutions, businesses and society can work together to create more opportunities for young people, help them adapt to change and prepare them for their future careers.
Honouring the Legacy of Bohdan Havrylyshyn
IYEF 2026 is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of Bohdan Havrylyshyn, an outstanding Ukrainian economist, educator and public figure whose life and professional career were closely connected to Geneva.
His international experience and contributions to education and society give this year’s forum particular significance. His ideas about responsible leadership, developing human potential and building an effective society remain relevant today for a generation that will face the economic and social challenges of the future.
The dedication to Bohdan Havrylyshyn’s centenary also underscores the importance of sharing knowledge and experience across borders and putting what we learn abroad to good use in our societies.
IvAlive Joins the Forum as an Information Partner
The IvAlive Foundation supports initiatives that create new opportunities for Ukrainians abroad, improve access to education and help young people develop their talents and pursue their goals.
This year, IvAlive is joining the International Youth Economic Forum as an information partner. IvAlive’s founder, Ivanna Onufriichuk, will also officially open the forum.
For IvAlive, taking part in initiatives like this is a way to help Ukrainian young people grow, explore new educational opportunities and connect with the international community.
When young Ukrainians are forced to leave their country, access to knowledge, professional networks and opportunities to exchange experiences becomes especially important. These opportunities help young Ukrainians not only adapt to their new environment, but also stay connected to Ukraine and recognise that they, too, can help shape the future.
Date and Venue
International Youth Economic Forum 2026
• Date: 31 October 2026
• Location: Université de Genève, Uni-Mail, Bd du Pont-d’Arve 40, 1205 Genève, Switzerland
• Official website: iyef-geneva.ch
You are welcome to attend — teenagers, parents, educators, entrepreneurs, all those interested in education, financial literacy and opportunities for the younger generation.
By investing in young people’s knowledge, skills and potential, we help build a society ready to shape its own future responsibly.
