Young Voices for Europe 2026 offers young people a chance to shape EU youth policies. This fully funded event takes place in Lyon, France, from July 15 to 17, 2026. It brings together 30 participants aged 18 to 30 for talks with Commissioner Glenn Micallef on topics like inclusion and key youth challenges.
The event helps build the next EU Youth Strategy. Young voices will guide decisions on youth participation and support systems. No policy experience is needed, so anyone passionate about change can join.
Why This Dialogue Matters
Europe’s leaders want input from young people for the new Youth Strategy. The goal is to make policies that fit real needs. Participants discuss inclusion, challenges, and reforms.
This step boosts democracy. It ensures young Europeans from all backgrounds help decide their future. The talks cover gaps in current support and fresh ideas for better programs.
Main Discussion Topics
The sessions focus on three key areas.
Making Participation Inclusive
Talks aim to open doors for everyone. This includes people from different social backgrounds, economic levels, ethnicities, disabilities, education paths, and locations. The focus is on fair access to policy-shaping.
Tackling Youth Challenges
Participants share views on big issues. These cover cover. These problems. These range from jobs and mental health to education, housing, digital changes, climate action, and roles in government. Personal stories lead to real solutions.
Creating a Youth-Focused EU Strategy
The group spots weaknesses in support systems. They suggest fixes, new projects, and ways to boost engagement. This helps the EU meet young people’s actual needs.
Who Can Apply
You qualify if you meet these rules:
- Age 18 to 30
- Live in geographical Europe
- Speak English well
- Free for the Lyon event July 15-17, 2026
- No past Youth Policy Dialogue attendance
Diverse backgrounds are welcome.
What the Program Covers
Everything is fully funded for selected participants:
- Travel to Lyon
- Hotel for July 15 and 16
- Meals at the event
- Local travel and transfers
- Side activities
- Networking with European youth leaders
This removes money barriers.
Extra Experiences in Lyon
Beyond talks, enjoy city tours and social events. These build friendships across cultures. You connect with peers, share ideas, and form lasting ties.
Application Steps
Fill out the EU Survey form with:
- Name, nationality, job, contacts
- Answers on youth in policymaking
- 200-word response on a topic you pick
Choose your top discussion theme. Attend one online prep meeting if selected.
Apply here: EU Survey form
Deadline
Submit by May 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET. Apply soon to avoid missing out.
Benefits of Joining
You influence EU policies directly. Meet decision-makers, build skills in leadership and speaking, gain global views, grow networks, and help Europe’s future. Many see it as a turning point for careers in policy or advocacy.
More details at Youth Europa page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Young Voices for Europe 2026?
You qualify if you are aged 18 to 30, live in geographical Europe, speak English well, are free for the event on July 15-17, 2026, and have not attended a past Youth Policy Dialogue.
What topics will be covered at the event?
Discussions focus on making participation inclusive, tackling youth challenges like jobs, mental health, education, and housing, and creating a new youth-focused EU strategy.
Is the event fully funded?
Yes, selected participants get full funding for travel, hotel stays on July 15-16, meals, local transport, and side activities.
What is the application deadline?
Submit your application by May 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET via the EU Survey form to avoid missing out.
Conversation
0 Comments