Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026
Young people have fresh ideas to make democracy stronger and more inclusive. The Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026, run by the Council of Europe and the European Youth Forum, offers a chance for 120 engaged youth to share views and create solutions. This event ties into the New Democratic Pact for Europe and happens during Monaco’s leadership of the Council of Ministers.
Event Overview
The programme takes place from June 24 to 26, 2026, at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg. Participants should arrive on June 23 and leave on June 27. Up to 120 young people will gather to talk about democracy’s future. They will discuss concerns, aspirations, and ways to build better systems.
Goals of the Programme
Attendees will share their thoughts on democracy. They will suggest practical fixes to make systems stronger. The focus is on new ways to include more people in decisions. Collaboration helps turn ideas into real actions for a fairer democracy.
Benefits for Participants
The Council of Europe covers all main costs. This includes stays in twin rooms at the centre or a nearby hotel. All meals happen at the centre. Travel expenses follow Council rules, with details and possible pre-paid tickets sent to those selected. No out-of-pocket costs for housing, food, or getting there.
Who Can Join
This event targets diverse youth leaders. You might qualify as a rep from an international youth group or network. National or local youth councils send reps too. Young activists for democracy and human rights fit, especially from youth movements or European Youth Foundation projects. Members of youth centres with the Quality Label, Advisory Council for Youth, or youth delegates to the Congress also qualify. Young artists, journalists, and content creators whose work matches the themes are welcome.
Extra rules apply to everyone:
- You must share and act on event outcomes.
- Live in a country signed to the European Cultural Convention (exceptions possible with good reason).
- Age 18 to 35 (exceptions if justified).
- Work well in English or French on your own.
- Free for the full event, June 23 to 27.
Application Details
The deadline is April 19, 2026. Apply online through the official form at https://forms.office.com/e/3YJwCpZ54K. Check the link for full details and submit before time runs out. Selected participants get more info on travel and lodging soon after.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026?
It’s a programme by the Council of Europe and European Youth Forum for 120 young people to share ideas and create solutions for stronger democracy. It links to the New Democratic Pact for Europe during Monaco’s leadership.
When and where does the event take place?
The main event runs from June 24 to 26, 2026, at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg. Participants arrive on June 23 and leave on June 27.
Who can participate in the programme?
Youth leaders from international groups, national youth councils, activists, artists, journalists, and others aged 18-35 from countries in the European Cultural Convention. You need good English or French skills and full availability.
How do I apply and what are the costs?
Apply online by April 19, 2026, via the form at https://forms.office.com/e/3YJwCpZ54K. The Council of Europe covers travel, lodging, and meals with no out-of-pocket costs.