GNA 2026
Participation
Who Should Apply
The Academy is intended for applicants with a demonstrated interest in negotiation and international affairs, including:
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Graduate students (Master’s and PhD level)
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Early to mid-career professionals working in relevant fields
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Exceptionally strong undergraduate students
Application Requirements
Applicants should submit the following materials by email. There is no separate application form.
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Curriculum Vitae (CV) including:
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please include your university (if current student)
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Motivation Statement (maximum two pages) outlining:
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interest in the Global Negotiation Academy,
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relevant academic, professional, or practical experience,
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how participation aligns with future goals.
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Applicants who require a visa to attend the Academy are kindly asked to indicate this in their application email. This information is requested for administrative planning purposes only.
Application Timeline
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Early Acceptance Deadline: 29 March 2026
Applications received by this date will be reviewed first and considered for early acceptance. -
Rolling Applications:
Applications received after 29 March 2026 will be reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to availability.
Fees
The program fee is CHF 485 per participant.
This fee includes all program materials and meals during the Academy week.
A limited number of scholarships are available for students from European universities as part of the Swiss-European Mobility Programme. These include a fee waiver as well as a financial stipend to cover the cost of accommodation (CHF 400) and train travel to attend the Academy (CHF 100). Financial support is also available on a case-by-case basis for applicants based in the Global South. Applicants who wish to be considered are invited to indicate their geographic base in their motivation statement.
How to Apply
Applications should be addressed to Project Lead, Global Negotiation Academy, and submitted by email to gna@global-negotiation.org with subject line: Global Negotiation Academy 2026 – Call for Applications.
Questions may be directed to shontaye.abegaz@global-negotiation.org
Preparation
Prior to the Academy all participants are put into teams and assigned to represent a party in the simulation on the final day. Participants will receive general information and confidential instructions on their party's negotiation position in advance of the event. Participants are expected to thoroughly prepare for the simulation before the Academy.
The topics picked for the GNA Simulation are complex international issues sometimes where a result has not yet been reached. The presentations and workshops are supposed to stimulate participants for the simulation as well as widen their understanding of negotiation. Although, informal discussions regarding the simulation can take place during the Academy these should on the whole be reserved for the day of the simulation.
Academic Accreditation
The Global Negotiation Academy is offered as a 3 ECTS Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) by the Institute for Political Science at the University of Zurich. Incoming students can apply to have these credits recognized by their own university though doing so is not necessary for participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
I will need a visa to travel to the GNA – can the organisers help to secure this for me?
The GNA does not apply for visas on behalf of participants. However, we do provide a letter to confirm that you are attending the Academy which can be used to apply for a visa. Please make sure you indicate in your application if this is the case and include a scan of your passport with the application.
If I need to cancel my participation will my fee be reimbursed?
This will depend on the circumstances. If you are unable to attend please let us know as soon as possible.
What is the dress code for the GNA?
The dress code for the opening days of the event is smart/casual while participants are expected to wear business attire for the final simulation. Depending on external events organised as part of the event program this may be subject to change. A detailed schedule including any dress requirements will be sent out prior to the event.
Are there discounted accommodation options available?
There are a limited number of discounted rooms available in the Saint Justin student accommodation. Details will be provided to successful applicants.
Is there financial support available to help me attend the GNA?
We expect participants to be able to cover their own travel and accommodation to attend the GNA. A limited number of scholarships are available for students from European universities as part of the Swiss-European Mobility Programme. These include a fee waiver as well as a financial stipend to cover the cost of accommodation (CHF 400) and train travel to attend the Academy (CHF 100). In addition students from the Global South can be considered for financial support. Please indicate if you are applying for this in your motivation letter.
I am a university lecturer can I also attend the Academy?
Attendance at the Academy is primarily for participants however we do welcome a small number of lecturers accompanying students as a way to explore deepening collaborations with the Institute. Please contact gna@global-negotiation.org to discuss this further.