Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future is a seven-day cultural and academic youth exchange organised through cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and the Regional Youth Cooperation Office. The 2026/2027 programme will take place in Japan from 20–26 January 2027 and will bring together 13 eligible students from the Western Balkans. Applications must be submitted by 31 August 2026 at 23:59 CET.
Programme Snapshot
Programme: Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future
Category: Youth Exchange Programme
Organisers: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (MOFA) and Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO)
Country: Japan
Duration: 7 days
Programme Dates: 20–26 January 2027
Participants: 13 undergraduate or graduate students
Application Deadline: 31 August 2026 at 23:59 CET
About Western Balkans Meet Japan 2026/2027
Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future is organised under the MIRAI Program. The exchange aims to deepen participants’ understanding of Japan and its policies while promoting mutual understanding and reconciliation through intellectual and cultural exchange.
The programme also seeks to strengthen future friendship and cooperation between Japan and the Western Balkans.
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Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the eligibility conditions stated by RYCO.
• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate programme.
• Be aged 20 or older at the time of application.
• Live in one of the Western Balkans societies.
• Hold a passport issued by Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia or Serbia.
• Have a good command of English.
• Have a valid passport.
• Be motivated to communicate information about Japan through different communication tools.
• Demonstrate good academic achievement and social activism.
• Not have previously participated in an exchange or similar programme organised by the Government of Japan.
• Not have previously lived in Japan.
• Respect the spirit of reconciliation and cooperation in the Western Balkans.
Applicants who hold Japanese nationality are not eligible.
Previous studies, cultural activities or other demonstrated ties to Japan are considered an asset. A track record in dealing with the past, reconciliation, regional cooperation or intercultural learning is also desirable.
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Costs Covered by the Programme
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan covers specified programme and travel expenses for selected participants.
✓ Round-trip international economy-class airfare to Japan
✓ Accident insurance
✓ Accommodation in Japan
✓ Transportation in Japan
✓ Meals during the programme
✓ Admission fees for scheduled programme activities
Participants remain responsible for personal expenses. These include passport and visa costs, vaccination expenses, excess baggage charges, travel between their home and the designated airport, and personal purchases.
Participants from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo* and Montenegro are also required to apply for a visa. Selected participants will receive information about the visa application process from the organisers.
Programme Focus
The exchange combines cultural and academic engagement with a focus on Japan, peacebuilding and cooperation.
Its stated objectives include:
✓ Deepening understanding of Japan and Japanese policy
✓ Supporting intellectual and cultural exchange
✓ Promoting mutual understanding and reconciliation
✓ Building stronger connections between Japan and the Western Balkans
✓ Creating a basis for future friendship and cooperation
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Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed after the submission period.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview in September 2026. Only selected participants will be notified, with notification expected by mid-October.
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Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by:
31 August 2026 at 23:59 CET
Applicants should complete the official application form and ensure that the information submitted meets the programme’s eligibility requirements.
Apply Here
Submit your application through the official application form linked by RYCO.
Apply for Western Balkans Meet Japan: A Bridge into the Future
