Now Open: Applications for the 6th Edition of LIDTA

Six years ago, Liberal International and VVD International proudly launched the Liberal International Democratic Training Academy (LIDTA). Since then, five successful editions have empowered a new generation of liberal political leaders from across the MENA region. Today, we are excited to officially open the call for applications for the sixth edition of LIDTA, taking place across the 2025–2026 programme year.

About the Academy

LIDTA is a premier political training programme jointly organised by Liberal International and VVD International. It is designed for young, politically engaged individuals with a proven commitment to liberal values, democracy, and human rights.

The Academy offers a modular course delivered across several weekends, combining digital and in-person sessions. Selected participants will benefit from an intensive curriculum focused on personal leadership development, political skills training, and exposure to modern liberal campaigning and governance strategies.

Expert trainers, drawn from the ranks of VVD – one of the world’s most successful liberal political parties – along with globally recognised professionals, will guide participants throughout the programme.

Programme Timeline

The LIDTA 2025–2026 edition  will consist of multiple modules spread across:

• Autumn 2025 (10-12 October)
• Winter 2025 (5-7 December)
• Spring 2026 (March – dates TBC)

Who Should Apply?

We are seeking young liberal leaders who are:

• Aged 18–30 years
• Politically active and connected to a member party of Liberal International (LI), ALN, or AHLN
• Based in the MENA region (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, or Turkey)
• Proficient in English

We highly encourage applications from women and individuals from minority backgrounds, as we value diversity as a key strength in the liberal movement.

Above all, applicants must be committed to fully participating in all LIDTA activities, both virtual and in person.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit the following documents:

• A motivation letter (maximum 450 words)
• A current CV
• A recommendation letter from their political party or affiliated regional network (LI, ALN, or AHLN)

Please email your complete application to Luuk Peeters internationaal@vvd.nl and William Townsend william@liberal-international.org.

Deadline for applications: 18 August 2025 (Close of Business)
Interviews with shortlisted candidates will be conducted online in the last week of August 2025.

For further details or questions, please contact the email addresses above.

We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of liberal changemakers to the LIDTA 2025–2026 programme!