The InvigoratEU Contest 2026 is now accepting submissions from creative thinkers, writers, students, professionals, and individuals worldwide who have a vision for the future of Europe. Organized by the Trans European Policy Studies Association (TEPSA), this international contest provides participants with a unique opportunity to contribute meaningful ideas on the future of the European continent while gaining international recognition.

As Europe continues to face major geopolitical, economic, and security challenges, discussions surrounding the future of the European Union (EU) have become increasingly important. Through this contest, TEPSA aims to encourage public participation by inviting people from around the world to express their ideas through essays, poetry, or audiovisual storytelling.

Successful participants will have the opportunity to showcase their work before leading European researchers, policymakers, and experts, while three winners will receive invitations to attend the InvigoratEU Final Conference in Brussels with travel and accommodation support.

About the InvigoratEU Contest

The European Union is entering a defining period in its history. The possibility of EU enlargement has become one of the continent’s most significant policy discussions, especially following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which exposed vulnerabilities across Europe.

Issues such as:

• Energy dependence
• Supply chain disruptions
• Security challenges
• Economic resilience
• Regional cooperation
• Defence collaboration

have highlighted the importance of stronger European integration.

While policymakers increasingly view enlargement as an investment in Europe’s long-term resilience, many citizens remain uncertain about its benefits. Misunderstandings and misinformation have contributed to growing scepticism regarding the expansion of the European Union.

The InvigoratEU Contest seeks to bridge this gap by encouraging citizens and residents from around the world to share their own perspectives on Europe’s future.

Rather than limiting the conversation to policymakers, academics, and institutions, TEPSA wants ordinary people to contribute innovative ideas that could help shape Europe’s future.

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Contest Theme

Participants are invited to explore the following central theme:

“What future for the European continent?”

Submissions should focus on Europe’s future, European Union enlargement, and the opportunities that a wider European Union could create for its member states and citizens.

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Submission Categories

Applicants may participate by submitting work in one of the following three categories.

1. Written Essays

Applicants may submit an original essay of no more than 2,000 words.

Essays should answer one of the following questions:

• How can a wider European Union contribute to Europe’s security and resilience?
• How can EU enlargement help build a more competitive and self-sufficient European continent?
• How can enlargement create tangible benefits for everyday citizens in both current and future Member States?

Essays should demonstrate originality, thoughtful analysis, and a clear understanding of the topic.

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2. Poetry

Participants may submit an original poem of up to 500 words.

The poem should creatively explore one or more of the following themes:

• Europe’s future
• European security
• Economic competitiveness
• EU enlargement
• Benefits for European citizens

Poems should reflect the author’s unique perspective and creative expression.

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3. Audiovisual Works

Applicants may also submit an original audiovisual production lasting no longer than two minutes.

Accepted formats include:

• Interviews
• Vlogs
• Documentary-style videos
• Animations
• Short films
• Creative visual storytelling
• Any other original video format

Participants may:

• Appear on camera themselves
• Feature other people
• Use narration only
• Create animated content
• Use visual storytelling without appearing in the video

Videos may be recorded using any available equipment and should be submitted either as a video file or through a downloadable link.

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Who Can Apply?

The competition welcomes participants from across the globe.

Eligible applicants include:

• Students
• Young professionals
• Individuals interested in European affairs
• Writers
• Artists
• Poets
• Content creators
• Researchers
• Members of the public interested in EU enlargement

Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be able to submit original work.
• Meet the submission requirements.

There are no nationality or residency restrictions, making this a truly global opportunity.

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Benefits of Participating

Selected winners will receive valuable international exposure and networking opportunities.

Benefits include:

• Invitation to attend the InvigoratEU Final Conference.
• Conference dates: 4–5 November 2026.
• Venue: Brussels, Belgium.
• Travel and accommodation support of up to €500.
• Opportunity to present work before leading researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.
• Recognition by the Trans European Policy Studies Association (TEPSA).
• Online promotion of winning submissions through TEPSA’s communication platforms.
• Increased visibility within European policy and academic networks.

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How to Apply

Applicants should prepare their original submission in their chosen category and send it via email.

Submission Email

communications@tepsa.eu

Subject Line

InvigoratEU public contest_LAST NAME

Replace “LAST NAME” with your surname before submitting.

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Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting entries is:

24 July 2026

Late submissions may not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to submit well before the deadline.

For more global opportunities visit OFY Website HERE

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Important Tips Before You Submit

To improve your chances of success:

• Submit only original work.
• Carefully follow the word and time limits.
• Address the contest theme clearly.
• Ensure your submission reflects your own ideas and creativity.
• Proofread your work before submission.
• Use a clear and professional file name.
• Submit before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

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Why This Opportunity Matters

The InvigoratEU Contest offers much more than a traditional writing or creative competition. It provides a platform for people around the world to participate in one of Europe’s most important conversations about its future.

Whether you are passionate about politics, international relations, security, economics, creative writing, filmmaking, or public policy, this contest allows you to contribute meaningful ideas while gaining international recognition.

For students and young professionals especially, participating can strengthen academic and professional portfolios, expand international networks, and provide valuable exposure within European policy circles.

For more information, visit TEPSA website HERE

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Conclusion

The InvigoratEU Contest 2026 presents an outstanding opportunity for individuals worldwide to share innovative ideas about the future of Europe through essays, poetry, or audiovisual storytelling. Beyond the chance to win a fully supported trip to Brussels, participants can have their work showcased before influential policymakers, researchers, and practitioners working on the future of European integration. If you are passionate about Europe’s future and have a creative vision to share, this is an opportunity worth exploring. Ensure your submission is original, follows all competition guidelines, and reaches the organizers no later than 24 July 2026.