Young voices, global perspectives: Globeducate Debates 2026

Each year, students from across the Globeducate network come together for Globeducate Debates, the group's annual international online debating competition. Bringing together learners aged 8 to 18 from schools across Europe, Canada, India and Morocco, the event challenges students to think critically, research complex issues and debate with confidence while connecting with peers from different countries and cultures.

This year, Globeducate Debates 2026 welcomed more than 1,190 students from 40 schools across 10 countries. While 92 teams took part in 46 live debates, participation extended far beyond the online event itself, with schools holding internal competitions and selection rounds that engaged well over a thousand students before the international finals.

Held online from 9th to 11th June, Globeducate Debates 2026 is one of the group's flagship international academic events, enabling students from Europe, Canada, India and Morocco to debate contemporary global issues in a collaborative and supportive environment. While the live event featured 92 teams competing across 46 debates, participation extended far beyond the competition itself, with schools holding their own internal debates and selection rounds involving well over a thousand students before the international finals.

Developing confident communicators

Each debate challenged students to research complex topics, evaluate evidence and construct persuasive arguments before presenting them live online. Students worked in teams, taking on the roles of speakers and researchers while learning to listen carefully, think critically and respond respectfully to opposing viewpoints.

Debate motions were tailored to different age groups, covering topics ranging from whether exams are the best way to assess learning to freedom of speech, euthanasia and the future of elite sport. The event encouraged students not only to defend their own position but also to understand and engage thoughtfully with alternative perspectives.

An international learning experience

One of the defining features of Globeducate Debates is its international online format, which enables students from different countries, cultures and educational systems to learn together. By debating with peers from across the Globeducate network, students build confidence in communicating their ideas while developing global awareness and intercultural understanding.

Students described the experience as both challenging and inspiring.

JiaXang from Agora Barcelona International School, Spain, said: "At first we thought it was impossible to take a stand against the argument, but through loads of research we found our feet and gave it our best shot."

Kumara, a Grade 9 student from TIPS Globeducate Madurai, India, reflected: "Participating in the event motivated me to embrace diverse perspectives and communicate my thoughts effectively."

Dimitris from The International School of Paphos, Cyprus, added: "Connecting with children from another country was something I'll never forget. I loved getting to use what I've learned in a real, hands-on way outside the usual classroom setting."

 

"I really enjoyed being part of this year’s debates. Seeing students from all corners of the Globeducate family meet each other and trade ideas was fantastic.

The ambition of the motions really impressed me. Topics such as “Euthanasia should be legalised,” “Freedom of speech should have limits,” and whether “performance‑enhancing drugs represent the future of sport” really challenged students to think deeply about complex ethical issues. It was impressive to see such young students trusted with, and rising to, discussions of that depth.

Across all age groups, the quality of discussion was excellent. Students took part thoughtfully, listening carefully, and responding with confidence and maturity. I was also impressed by the teamwork behind it – the preparation, the researchers and the student chairs all added real substance.

It reinforced how valuable these experiences are in building confidence, critical thinking and openness to different perspectives and how Globeducate’s focus on creating such experiences is such an important part of our work."

John Nichols, Education Director, Globeducate
 

As one of the many international learning experiences offered across the Globeducate network, Globeducate Debates 2026 demonstrates the power of bringing students together beyond the classroom. By developing communication, collaboration and critical thinking skills while connecting with young people from around the world, students gain experiences that prepare them not only for future academic success but also for life as confident global citizens who can shape the world.

We invite you to read more about Globeducate Events. Click here.