LIDTA 2026

18–20 September 2026 | Antalya, Türkiye

The Liberal International Democratic Training Academy (LIDTA), jointly organised by Liberal International and VVD International, will bring together the 2025–2026 cohort and LIDTA alumni for a special training weekend in Antalya, Türkiye, from 18 to 20 September 2026.

The weekend marks the graduation of the 2025–2026 LIDTA cohort, as participants complete the Academy’s three-module programme designed to develop the next generation of liberal political leaders from the MENA region. It will also bring together 10 LIDTA alumni from five previous cohorts for an advanced alumni training module, strengthening the Academy’s growing network of liberal leaders.

Module III: From Potential to Political Leadership

The final module of LIDTA focuses on preparing participants for the realities of political leadership and helping them define their role, navigate challenges and take the next step in their liberal careers.

Participants will explore liberal careers and pathways to political leadership, reflecting on the question “Why you?” and identifying the strengths, values and qualities they bring as future liberal leaders. Through a political crisis simulation, participants will put their leadership, communication and decision-making skills to the test in a realistic high-pressure scenario.

The module will conclude with a personal leadership story, giving participants the opportunity to present how their experiences, values and lessons from the Academy have shaped their vision for political leadership.

LIDTA Alumni: Continuing the Journey

Alongside the graduating cohort, 10 alumni representing five previous LIDTA cohorts will return to Antalya for a dedicated advanced training module.

The alumni programme provides an opportunity for experienced LIDTA participants to deepen their leadership skills, exchange experiences from their political and professional work, and strengthen connections across the growing LIDTA network. The gathering reflects LIDTA’s commitment to supporting participants beyond the Academy itself and building a lasting community of liberal leaders across the MENA region.

The weekend will therefore bring together the newest generation of LIDTA graduates and members of the Academy’s growing alumni network, creating space for peer learning, experience-sharing and continued cooperation.