The 2nd Youth Diplomatic Forum, organised by the Ukrainian Red Cross, kicks off in Kyiv

Today, more than 100 students and young professionals from across Ukraine gathered in the capital to discuss humanitarian diplomacy, international relations, and the role of youth in building a resilient society — together with leading experts in diplomacy, international law, and representatives of civil society organisations and academia.

 “The modern world is facing unprecedented challenges — wars, climate crises, large-scale displacement of people, and waves of disinformation. That is why humanitarian diplomacy has become a new dimension of contemporary diplomacy — one that combines dialogue, persuasion, and advocacy to protect people and amplify their voices globally,” said Maksym Dotsenko, Director General of the Ukrainian Red Cross.

During the Forum’s opening session, Hugo Slim, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford, emphasised:

“Humanitarian diplomacy is the diplomacy of humanity. It calls on us not to use power, but persuasion; not pressure, but compassion. Its goal is to ensure that human life and dignity remain at the centre of all decisions and negotiations.”

Over the next two days, participants of the 2nd Youth Diplomatic Forum will take part in panel discussions, learning labs, and simulation exercises. Together with experts, diplomats, and representatives of humanitarian organisations, they will explore how to apply humanitarian principles in negotiations, counter disinformation, and effectively advocate for community needs.

Key topics include the role of young people in humanitarian diplomacy, Ukraine’s humanitarian voice, and practical skills in negotiation, public speaking, and crisis communication.