Young people in Europe have a chance to help shape the EU’s next youth strategy. The “Young Voices for Europe 2026” event brings together 30 participants in Lyon, France, from July 15 to 17. This fully funded dialogue with Commissioner Glenn Micallef lets young voices influence policies on key issues like jobs, mental health, and inclusion.
Why This Dialogue Matters
The EU is working on its next Youth Strategy. This event makes sure young people join the talks instead of sitting on the sidelines. Participants will cover topics like better youth involvement, big challenges for young Europeans, and ways to improve support systems. It builds stronger democracy by including diverse voices in decisions.
Main Discussion Topics
The sessions focus on three core areas.
1. Making Youth Participation More Inclusive
Talks will look at barriers based on social background, money, ethnicity, disability, education, or where someone lives. The goal is to find ways every young person can join in policy talks. This helps create fair chances for all.
2. Tackling Key Challenges for Young People
Participants will share views on real problems like finding jobs, mental health support, school access, fitting into society, housing costs, online changes, climate action, and roles in government. Personal stories and fix ideas will drive the talks. Solutions could lead to real policy shifts.
3. Creating a Youth-Focused EU Strategy
The group will spot weak spots in current help for youth, point out failed policies, suggest fresh projects, and plan wider engagement. This input goes straight to EU leaders. It aims to match policies with what young people actually need.
Who Can Apply
You qualify if you meet these rules:
- Age 18 to 30
- Live in any part of geographical Europe
- Speak English well
- Free to join the event in person July 15-17, 2026
- No past time in a Youth Policy Dialogue
All backgrounds are welcome. No policy know-how needed.
What the Funding Covers
Everything is paid for selected people:
- Flight or travel to Lyon
- Hotel stays July 15 and 16
- Food at the event
- Local rides and transfers
- Extra activities
- Chances to meet other young leaders
This removes money worries so more can join.
More Than Just Talks
Side events include city tours and social meetups in Lyon. You will connect across cultures, team up with peers from other countries, and make lasting links. It mixes fun with serious work.
How to Apply
Fill out the EU Survey form online. Add your name, country, job or school, contact info, answers to youth policy questions, and a 200-word note on your top topic. Pick your favorite discussion area too.
Prep Before the Event
If picked, join at least one online meeting first. It covers goals, prep for talks, main ideas, and intros to others.
Deadline
Apply by May 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET. Send early to be safe.
Reasons to Go For It
You can sway EU youth rules, talk to top officials, build skills in leading and speaking, see the world, grow your network, and help Europe’s path forward. Many call it a game-changer for careers in policy or youth work.
For details, check this EU page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Young Voices for Europe 2026 event?
You can apply if you are 18 to 30 years old, live in geographical Europe, speak English well, are free to attend in person from July 15-17, 2026, and have not joined a past Youth Policy Dialogue.
What does the funding cover for selected participants?
Funding covers flights or travel to Lyon, hotel stays on July 15 and 16, meals during the event, local transport, extra activities, and networking opportunities.
What are the main topics discussed at the event?
The talks focus on making youth participation more inclusive, tackling key challenges like jobs and mental health, and creating a better EU youth strategy.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Fill out the online EU Survey form with your details, answers to policy questions, and a 200-word note on your top topic; the deadline is May 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
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