On May 18, the "International Start" internship program for foreign citizens was launched at the World Youth Festival Directorate. The project is aimed at developing international youth cooperation and supporting young foreign specialists living in Russia.

"The "International Start" program gives young foreign professionals living in Russia the chance to gain hands‑on experience in international youth cooperation and to join a professional community that is actively shaping modern humanitarian ties between countries. Our goal is to create an environment where young people can build their skills, bring forward their own ideas, share experiences, and establish lasting international connections. Selection for the program runs throughout 2026, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis – so young professionals can join at a time that works best for them. We see this program as another stepping stone in training the next generation of leaders in international cooperation," said Dmitry Ivanov, Director General of the World Youth Festival Directorate.

The program includes two‑week, in‑person internships at the World Youth Festival Directorate's Department of International Cooperation. Participants will get hands‑on experience running international youth projects, learn how to navigate international dialogue, and build their professional skills in youth policy and humanitarian cooperation.

Foreign citizens aged 18 to 35 residing in the Russian Federation may take part in the competitive selection process. One of the mandatory requirements is proficiency in the Russian language at a level not lower than B1. Candidates must also have work experience in the international field or a higher education degree in International Relations or a related field.

The competitive selection process consists of two parts: an application and a section dedicated to the participant's international connections and experience. Applications can be submitted on the website of the International Opportunities Platform.

Overview:

The World Youth Festival took place on March 1–7, 2024 at the ‘Sirius’ Federal Territory, according to the Decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the development of international youth cooperation. The WYF-2024 brought together 20,000 young leaders from 190 countries.

In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin on preserving and developing the legacy of the World Youth Festival, festival events on the territory of the Russian Federation will be held annually. The World Youth Festival Assembly was held in Nizhny Novgorod in 2025 and brought together 2,000 young people from 120 countries. In 2026, the International Festival of Youth will gather 10,000 participants. The next World Youth Festival for 20,000 participants will be held in 2030.

The World Youth Festival Directorate continues the work aimed at strengthening international youth cooperation and developing a community of young people who care about the future of the world.