Youth Innovating Democracy Event @Council of Europe

The Youth Innovating Democracy 2026 event, organized by the Council of Europe in partnership with the European Youth Forum, is a prestigious, fully funded international youth event designed to empower young leaders to actively contribute to the future of democracy in Europe and beyond.

Held at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg, France from June 24 to June 26, 2026, this unique event is part of the consultation phase of the New Democratic Pact for Europe, an ambitious initiative aimed at reinforcing democratic systems, promoting inclusivity, and addressing emerging challenges such as disinformation, political disengagement, and democratic backsliding.

The programme will bring together up to 120 young participants from across Europe and beyond to engage in meaningful dialogue, develop innovative solutions, and directly influence policy recommendations that will shape the future of democracy.

About the Youth Innovating Democracy Event

The Youth Innovating Democracy event is a flagship youth engagement initiative under the New Democratic Pact for Europe. It is designed as a platform for young people to:

• Share their perspectives on democracy and governance
• Propose innovative solutions to strengthen democratic systems
• Engage directly with policymakers and political leaders
• Contribute to shaping future democratic frameworks

This event reflects the Council of Europe’s long-standing commitment to youth participation in democratic decision-making processes.

Why This Event Matters

Across Europe and globally, democracy faces increasing challenges, including:

• Democratic backsliding
• Disinformation and misinformation
• Declining trust in institutions
• Youth underrepresentation in politics

The New Democratic Pact for Europe aims to address these issues by strengthening democratic foundations, amplifying citizen participation, and innovating governance systems.

The Youth Event plays a critical role in this process by ensuring that young people are at the center of these conversations and solutions.

Key Themes of the Event

The event is structured around three major thematic areas that address pressing challenges in democracy.

1. Juvenate Politics: Innovating the System

This theme focuses on increasing youth participation in political systems.

Key discussions include:

• Youth representation in decision-making
• Electoral reforms (e.g., youth quotas, voting age)
• Civic education and political engagement
• Inclusion of young people in governance

2. Live Equality: The Promise of Democracy

This theme addresses social and economic inequalities affecting young people.

Key focus areas:

• Access to social rights
• Economic justice and inclusion
• Impact of crises on youth (economic, political, health)
• Addressing marginalization and exclusion

3. Empower Communities: Building Participation Ecosystems

This theme explores how to create enabling environments for youth participation.

Topics include:

• Role of youth organizations and civil society
• Participatory democracy models
• Community engagement and grassroots initiatives
• Protection of democratic freedoms

Objectives of the Programme

The event aims to:

• Engage youth in shaping the New Democratic Pact for Europe
• Highlight innovative practices in youth participation
• Foster dialogue between youth and policymakers
• Promote democratic values and human rights
• Build a network of young leaders

Programme Structure

The three-day programme includes:

• Plenary sessions with political leaders
• Interactive workshops and discussions
• Creative and participatory activities
• Networking opportunities
• Development of policy proposals and outputs

Participants will contribute directly to recommendations and creative outputs that will inform the New Democratic Pact.

Participant Profile

The event seeks a diverse group of young people, including:

• Representatives of international youth organizations
• Members of national or local youth councils
• Youth activists in democracy and human rights
• Participants from youth movements and initiatives
• Youth delegates and policy contributors
• Young artists, journalists, and content creators

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Aged between 18 and 35 years
• Resident in a country party to the European Cultural Convention (exceptions possible)
• Able to work in English or French
• Available for the full duration of the event
• Able to contribute to follow-up actions after the event

Selection Process

• Up to 120 participants will be selected
• Selection ensures diversity in:
  • Gender
  • Geographic representation
  • Experience levels
  • Cultural backgrounds

A waiting list will also be established.

Financial Support and Benefits

The event is fully funded by the Council of Europe.

Covered Costs

• Travel expenses (according to Council of Europe rules)
• Accommodation (European Youth Centre or nearby hotel)
• Meals during the event

Participants are expected to arrive on June 23 and depart on June 27, 2026.

Working Languages

• English
• French

Participants must be able to communicate effectively in at least one of these languages.

Learn more HERE.

Why You Should Apply

This event offers a unique opportunity to:

• Engage directly with European policymakers
• Influence the future of democracy
• Build international networks
• Develop leadership and advocacy skills
• Gain global exposure

Application Process

Applicants must:

• Complete the Official Online Application Form
• Submit before the deadline

Applications must be submitted through the official platform; incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Application Deadline

• Deadline: April 19, 2026 (23:59 CET)

Please read the call for applications for more information.

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