ABOUT THE NSL PROGRAM

The New Security Leaders program (NSL) is a leadership and mentoring program for mid-career, high potential leaders from foreign policy, defense, security, and political fields. Over the course of the program, NSL participants work with the Mentors – world leaders, global thinkers and experts – to discuss and debate the most pressing global security challenges.

The NSL takes place in conjunction and parallel with The Warsaw Security Forum (WSF), providing participants with the opportunity to share their ideas at the Forum and contribute to shaping the discussions. The New Security Leaders program is organized by the Casimir Pulaski Foundation.

Integral to the NSL Program are cohort-building activities and Leadership Talks, both held remotely in advance of the program. These include dedicated NSL roundtable format sessions before WSF and select opportunities for engagements during the conference itself.

The idea behind the Leadership Talks modus operandi is to provide strategic insights, highlight key issues and themes facing the Transatlantic community, and engage in discussion on both local and regional topics.

This approach encourages NSL participants to share their insights. The NSL program provides a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience on defense issues, security policy, and global politics, all within a Chatham House Rules-based environment.

HOW TO APPLY

📌 Submit the online application form (below) by June 1, 2025

📌 Attach your CV

📌 Attach your Policy Essay

📌 Attach a recent photo

How important is the essay?

Your essay is a key part of the selection process. While the application form includes suggested topics, you may submit an essay on any subject relevant to diplomacy, security, or the Euro-Atlantic alliance.

Essay guidelines:

  • Format: Opinion piece (800–1,000 words) OR graduate-level paper (1,500–3,000 words).
  • Originality: Must be your own work; sources are helpful but not required.
  • Purpose: The selection committee values clear, well-argued insights. Exceptional essays may be considered for publication.

Application Deadline: June 1, 2025

FAQ

Program Logistics

Lodging Covered

  • Check-in: Saturday, September 27, 2025
  • Check-out: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Meals Provided

  • Most meals (approximately 75%) are included.

Program Dates

  • Arrival: Saturday, September 27, 2025 (Welcome Dinner at 7 PM)
  • Departure: Wednesday, October 1, 2025 (Participants covering extended stays at their own expense).

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What is NOT Covered?

Transportation: Participants must arrange their own travel and transfers.

Airport Transfers:

  • Chopin Airport → City Center: Uber ($10–12) or public transit (valid for 75–90 min).
  • Modlin Airport → City Center: Uber ($35) or express bus/train (~$10).

Medical Insurance:

Participants must have their own insurance; the organizers are not responsible for medical expenses.

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Accommodation Details

Will I stay in a hotel?

  • Yes! All accepted participants will be provided with a Standard Single Room at the designated hotel.

Can I stay somewhere else?

  • To facilitate logistics and networking, all participants stay in the same hotel. Choosing a different hotel means you will not be reimbursed for program-related lodging costs.

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For questions or further details, contact:

We look forward to reviewing your application and welcoming you to Warsaw!