In a world increasingly shaped by cultural challenges, political polarisation, and the need for strong, values-based leadership, the Young Leaders of the Iberosphere (YLI) Programme, an initiative of Disenso Foundation—a think tank affiliated with VOX—in collaboration with New Direction, has become a cornerstone for empowering young leaders across the Iberosphere. Now in its fourth edition, this initiative reflects a vision for a unified and cooperative Iberosphere that harnesses its shared linguistic, cultural, and historical ties to navigate the challenges of the modern era.
This year’s edition brought together a diverse cohort of rising leaders from across the Iberosphere, representing Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Spain, Panama, and Peru. This geographic diversity underscores the program’s commitment to fostering collaboration among nations with shared roots but distinct challenges, the most paramount of which is the fight against narco-communism in the region.
The 2024 program began on a symbolic and timely note—the United States presidential elections. Launching in Washington, D.C., on election day offered participants a unique opportunity to witness one of the world’s most influential political processes. This moment set the stage for a journey that took them to key European capitals—Madrid, Rome, Budapest, and Brussels—each selected for its cultural, historical, and political significance.
In Washington, participants explored the dynamics of transatlantic relations through meetings with policymakers, think tanks, and political figures, providing critical insights into U.S. foreign policy and its implications for the Iberosphere. Among other institutions, the YLI visited the Heritage Foundation and the Center for a Secure Free Society. The time in the U.S. highlighted the importance of strong alliances and the role young leaders must play in fostering dialogue across continents.
One of the program’s defining features is its emphasis on forging connections—both among participants and with the institutions and leaders they meet. The selection of representatives from diverse nations ensured a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives, while the experiences shared during the program created bonds that will serve as the foundation for long-term collaboration.
Previous editions saw Madrid, the cultural and historical heart of the Iberosphere, emphasise Spain’s pivotal role as a bridge between Europe and Latin America. Discussions focused on the region’s shared heritage and the strategic importance of collaboration. In this regard, Disenso Foundation offered a hub for the young leaders to meet with key political figures within VOX, as well as some leading public intellectuals in the Spanish conservative ecosystem. Rome offered a deep dive into the European political tradition, connecting participants with the historical and cultural underpinnings of modern governance, and meeting with key allies in the European conservative landscape such as Nazione Futura foundation. Budapest also welcomed the participants with a very interesting agenda with some of the leading institutions of the country, such as Mathias Corvinus Collegium. Their time in Hungary brought attention to debates surrounding sovereignty, identity, and Central Europe’s evolving place in global politics. Finally, Brussels, the heart of the European Union, exposed participants to the inner workings of EU policymaking, offering a unique perspective on issues ranging from trade and diplomacy to the culture war. The host in Brussels was New Direction (ECR Group), co-organiser of this initiative.
The voices of already three cohorts of alumni reflect the program’s transformative impact. Participants often describe how their experiences reshaped their understanding of leadership and governance, equipping them with the tools to drive change in their communities. The program’s alumni network, now spanning four editions, serves as a testament to its enduring influence, with graduates from Spain and the Iberosphere continuing to work across sectors to advance the values of liberty, sovereignty, and democratic governance, both from civil society and from politics.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, yet marked by division, initiatives such as the Young Leaders of the Iberosphere Programme take on greater significance. They are not just about equipping individuals with skills; they are about creating movements rooted in shared values and collective action. Disenso Foundation and New Direction have successfully created a platform that not only prepares future leaders but also fosters unity among the nations of the Iberosphere, ensuring a stronger and more resilient region for the decades to come.
The 2024 edition reaffirms the programme’s vital role in shaping the future of the Iberosphere and the leadership of Spain and VOX in this fight. The programme has forged a generation of leaders ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow with integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to their shared heritage.
