UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2025 Youth Video Competition

On 9-10 September, UNIDIR will host its annual Outer Space Security Conference (#OS25) in Geneva, Switzerland, and online. This flagship event brings together diplomats, technical experts, military officials, private sector leaders, and academics to explore the evolving landscape of space security and shape international responses to its challenges.

The OS25 competition aims to:

• Encourage the next generation to shape inclusive space governance.
• Promote meaningful youth engagement in global space security discussions.
• Showcase creative and diverse perspectives on the future of space security.

• Table of Content
• About United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
• UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference
• Aim and Benefits of UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference
• Requirements for UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference Qualification
• Interview date, Process and Venue for UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) is an autonomous institution within the United Nations that conducts independent research on pressing global challenges related to disarmament, arms control and international security. We develop innovative ideas to tackle the most pressing security issues of our world. Our research expertise frames complex challenges in accessible ways and promotes an inclusive dialogue to find creative and effective solutions. Our work aims to provide the foundations for meaningful collective action towards a more secure world. ... continue reading

UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference

Application Deadline	18 Jul 2025
Country to study	Switzerland
Type	Entrepreneurs
Sponsor	United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR)
Gender	Men and Women

Aim and Benefits of UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference

• A fully funded trip to Geneva, Switzerland, to attend the OS25 – including round-trip economy airfare, accommodation for the duration of the conference, and per diems to cover some meals during those dates.
• Lightning talk premiere of the winners’ videos during the conference with the opportunity to present the videos to a global audience.
• Selected videos will be featured on the UNIDIR website.
• Selected winners will have an opportunity to transform their video and OS25 experience into a brief commentary to be published on the UNIDIR website.

Requirements for UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference Qualification

UNIDIR invites individuals aged 18–25 from around the world to submit a 1–3-minute original video on the following theme:

It’s the year 2050. You work on outer space security, shaping space governance as a treaty negotiator, orbital traffic controller, policy advisor, infrastructure inspector – or something else entirely. What challenge do you face and how are you responding?

• Individuals aged 18–25 from any country.

Interview date, Process and Venue for UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• Originality and creativity
• Relevance to the theme
• Clarity and technical quality
• Awareness of space security issues
• Engaging and thoughtful delivery

All submissions will be reviewed according to the pre-established criteria by a diverse panel of judges drawn from across UNIDIR and CIGI. The judging process is designed to ensure fairness, balance and transparency, with attention to geographic, gender and disciplinary diversity.

Entries that reflect youth, gender and regional diversity perspectives are highly encouraged.

How to participate?

• Video: Create a 1-3-minute video based on this year’s theme.
• Submission and deadline: Complete this submission form by Friday, 18 July 2025.
• Contact: For questions or technical issues, please email [email protected].

Submission guidelines

• Only one submission per person is allowed.
• Submissions must be original content created by the entrant.
• AI-generated images or videos are strictly prohibited and will result in disqualification.
• Entries must comply with applicable laws and be free of copyrighted material not owned by the creator.

Technical requirements

• Videos must be submitted in .mp4 format, with audio, visuals, and subtitles in one file.
• Any language may be used, but videos not in English must include English closed captions.
• If possible, videos should be produced in landscape (horizontal) mode, rather than portrait (vertical) mode. Portrait videos, however, will not be disqualified.

Application Deadline

July 18, 2025

How to Apply

For more details, visit UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference Youth Video Competition wepage.