Call for Submissions: UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference 2026 Youth Video Competition

Application Deadline: June 21, 2026

About the Competition

The UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference Youth Video Competition invites young people to share their perspectives on outer space security. This competition is organized by UNIDIR (United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research) as part of its ongoing efforts to engage youth in discussions about the peaceful use of outer space and the prevention of an arms race in space. Participants are invited to create short videos addressing key themes related to outer space security, including the sustainable use of space, space debris mitigation, transparency and confidence-building measures, and the prevention of conflict in space.

Requirements

• Video Length: 1 to 3 minutes
• Submission and deadline: Complete the submission form by Sunday, 21 June, 2026.

Why This Competition Matters

Outer space is increasingly congested, contested, and competitive. More countries and private actors are launching satellites, and space debris poses growing risks to essential space assets that underpin global communications, navigation, weather monitoring, and financial systems. Yet youth voices are often absent from policy discussions about space security.

The UNIDIR Youth Video Competition provides a platform for young people to:

• Contribute their ideas to international space security discussions
• Engage with the work of UNIDIR and the Outer Space Security Conference
• Develop skills in research, communication, and video production
• Gain visibility for their perspectives on a critical global issue

Eligibility

The competition is open to young people from around the world. Specific age requirements include the following:

• Open to individuals aged 18–25 from any country.
• Only one submission per person.
• Submissions must be original content created by the entrant.
• Generative AI cannot be used to create the core video narrative, script, or presenter likeness. However, AI-assisted tools may be used solely for technical visualizations, such as generating schematics, conceptual design renderings, or animations of physical sequences (e.g., docking maneuvers), provided the underlying engineering concept is entirely the entrant’s original work and the use of AI is disclosed in the submission form. Fully AI-generated videos or imagery used to bypass original creative effort are strictly prohibited and will result in disqualification.

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.
• Entries must comply with applicable laws and be free of copyrighted material not owned by the creator.

Selection criteria

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

How to Participate

Interested participants should visit the official UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference webpage for full competition details, including video submission guidelines, topics, length requirements, and deadlines.

For More Information: Visit the Official UNIDIR Outer Space Security Conference Page