Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026: Apply Now for Council of Europe Event
Are you a young person passionate about making democracy stronger and more inclusive? The Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026, organized by the Council of Europe and the European Youth Forum, offers a chance to join 120 others in sharing ideas and solutions. This event is part of the New Democratic Pact for Europe and takes place from June 24 to 26, 2026, at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg.
Event Details
The Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026 brings together engaged young people to discuss the future of democracy. Participants will share their views, concerns, and hopes. They will also work on practical ways to build better democratic systems and make them more open to everyone.
The event happens under the Presidency of Monaco of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. You need to arrive in Strasbourg on June 23 and leave on June 27, 2026. The deadline to apply is April 19, 2026.
What You Gain
This programme covers all your main needs during the event. You get a place to stay in twin rooms at the European Youth Centre or a nearby hotel. All meals are provided there too.
Travel costs are paid by the Council of Europe based on their rules. They might send pre-paid tickets. Selected participants will learn more details after they are chosen.
Who Can Apply
The event targets a mix of 120 people from different backgrounds. You might qualify if you are:
- A representative of an international youth organization or network.
- From a national, local, or regional youth council.
- A young activist for democracy and human rights, or part of a youth movement or initiative. This includes those linked to European Youth Foundation projects or Youth Revitalising Democracy.
- From a youth centre in the Council of Europe Quality Label network.
- A member of the Advisory Council for Youth or the European Steering Committee for Youth.
- A youth delegate to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities.
- A young artist, journalist, or content creator whose work fits the event themes.
You also need to meet these rules:
- Be able to share and act on the event’s results.
- Live in a country that signed the European Cultural Convention (exceptions possible with good reason).
- Be 18 to 35 years old (exceptions possible).
- Work well in English or French on your own.
- Be free for the full event.
How to Apply
Fill out the application form online. Click here to apply. Make sure you submit by April 19, 2026. For full details, check the official sources from the Council of Europe and European Youth Forum. This is your chance to help shape democracy’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026?
It is an event by the Council of Europe and European Youth Forum where 120 young people share ideas to make democracy stronger and more inclusive.
When and where does the event take place?
The programme runs from June 24 to 26, 2026, at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg, with arrival on June 23 and departure on June 27.
Who can apply for the programme?
Young people aged 18-35 from youth organizations, councils, activism, or related fields who live in countries that signed the European Cultural Convention and can work in English or French.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Fill out the online application form and submit by April 19, 2026; check official sources from the Council of Europe and European Youth Forum for details.