From May 8 to 10, 2025, the Leningrad Region hosted the Alexander Nevsky Leningrad Youth Forum to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
The event brought together 30 international participants from 14 countries: Spain, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Algeria, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic, Abkhazia, Belarus, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The forum played an important role in preserving historical memory and strengthening international ties.

“The Alexander Nevsky Youth Forum was an important step in strengthening international dialogue and preserving the historical memory of the Soviet people's heroic feats in the Great Patriotic War. The event demonstrated how crucial it is to unite efforts in upholding the truth about the war and fostering peace among nations. The forum participants, representing 14 countries, had a unique opportunity to dive into the atmosphere of historical events and establish a personal connection with the memory of this great feat, which will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper understanding and respect for the history of the Great Patriotic War in the international community”, said Yulia Vasilyeva, leader of the International Friendship Club of the Leningrad Region.

During the forum, participants learned about inventions made during the Great Patriotic War and their role in defeating fascism, explored traditional Russian households, discovered the history of local crafts, and painted their own souvenirs using a traditional local painting technique. They also took part in the “Gatchina – City of Military Glory” quest and toured the city’s historical sites.

International participants joined the “Immortal Regiment” march and laid flowers at the “City of Military Glory” stele, symbolizing the courage and resilience of Gatchina’s defenders. The forum guests watched the documentary “The Unforgotten”, explored the history through the intellectual board game “Victory”, and enjoyed the festive fireworks. On top of that, they visited the “Museum of Russian Railways”, learning about its rich history, unique exhibits, the development of rail transport and its crucial role for the country.

“My dream came true as I took part in the Immortal Regiment campaign! We, 30 people from different countries, united during the forum and marched together. The unity and patriotism of Gatchina’s residents evoked powerful emotions. This experience touched my heart, filling it with pride for our ancestors. I teared up because memory is a priceless treasure. Thanks to everyone who cherishes this memory and to those who gave their lives for our peace”, shared forum participant Darya Gosteva from Kazakhstan.

The forum was organized by the Youth Policy Committee of the Leningrad Region and the regional Volunteer Resource Center, with support from the International Friendship Club of the Leningrad Region. Event partners included the regional branch of the Russian “Znanie” (Knowledge) Society.

Overview:

The World Youth Festival took place on March 1–7, 2024 in Sirius, 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.

On the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation, the WYF will be held in Russia on a regular basis – once in six years. Also, every six years 10,000 young people from all over the world will get together at the World Youth Festival Forum, and in between, international themed assemblies for 2,000 participants will be held under the auspices of the WYF. The first Assembly is scheduled to take place in September 2025 in Nizhny Novgorod. Festival events of various formats will be held in Russia annually.

According to the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation on the preservation and development of the Festival legacy, the World Youth Festival Directorate continues the work aimed at strengthening international youth cooperation.