Deadline: April 19, 2026
The Council of Europe, in partnership with the European Youth Forum and within the framework of the Presidency of Monaco of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, is organising “Youth Innovating Democracy”, the Youth Event of the New Democratic Pact for Europe. The event will take place at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg from 24 to 26 June 2026.
The event will bring together up to 120 engaged young people to: share their perspectives, concerns, and aspirations for the future of democracy; contribute ideas and practical solutions to strengthen democratic systems; collaborate on innovative approaches to make democracy more inclusive and participatory.
Benefits
- Accommodation will be provided in the European Youth Centre Strasbourg or in a hotel nearby in twin rooms. Meals will be provided in the European Youth Centre. Participants will be informed after the selection on the place of accommodation. All meals and accommodation are provided by the Council of Europe.
- Travel costs are covered by the Council of Europe on basis of its rules. Further information will be communicated to the selected participants, pre-paid tickets can be offered following the rules of the Council of Europe. Participants should arrive to Strasbourg on 23 June and depart on 27 June 2026.
Eligibility
The youth event is primarily designed to bring together a diverse group of 120 participants who are either:
- representatives of an international youth organisation or network;
- representatives of national youth council or local/regional youth councils;
- young activists for democracy and human rights, members of youth movements or initiatives, including those associated with projects supported by the European Youth Foundation or the project Youth revitalising democracy;
- representatives of youth centres in the Council of Europe Quality Label for Youth Centres network;
- members of the Advisory Council for Youth or the European Steering Committee for Youth;
- youth delegates to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities;
- young artists, young journalists and content creators whose work addresses the themes of the youth event.
And, in addition, fulfil the following criteria:
- Are in a position to multiply and follow-up on the conclusions of the youth event;
- Are resident on a state party to the European Cultural Convention, exceptions are possible if duly justified;
- Are aged between 18-35 years old, exception are possible if justified;
- Are able to work autonomously in English or in French;
- Are available for the entire duration of the youth event.
Application
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