Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026: Shape Europe’s Future in Strasbourg

Are you a young person passionate about making 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 to join others in shaping Europe’s future. This event gathers up to 120 young people in Strasbourg from June 24 to 26, 2026, to share ideas and create real solutions for better democratic systems.

Event Details

The Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026 is part of the New Democratic Pact for Europe. It takes place at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg. Participants will arrive on June 23 and leave on June 27. The deadline to apply is April 19, 2026.

Young attendees will discuss their views on democracy’s challenges and hopes. They will work together on practical ways to make democracy more open to everyone. The focus is on new ideas that include more people in decision-making.

What You Gain

The programme covers all main costs so you can focus on the work. You get a place to stay in twin rooms at the Youth Centre or a nearby hotel. All meals are provided there too.

Travel expenses are paid based on Council of Europe rules. Selected participants will receive details, including options for pre-paid tickets. This setup lets you join without money worries.

Who Can Participate

This event targets a mix of 120 people aged 18 to 35 from countries in the European Cultural Convention. Exceptions may apply with good reasons. You need to speak English or French well and be free for the full time.

Ideal candidates include:

• Reps from international youth groups or networks.
• Members of national, local, or regional youth councils.
• Young activists for democracy and human rights, or those in youth movements linked to European Youth Foundation projects.
• Reps from youth centres with Council of Europe Quality Label.
• Members of the Advisory Council for Youth or European Steering Committee for Youth.
• Youth delegates to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities.
• Young artists, journalists, or content creators focused on democracy themes.

You should also be able to share the event’s outcomes with others afterward.

Application Process

Apply online through the official form. The link is: Click here to apply.

Make sure your application shows how you fit the criteria and can contribute. Selected people will get more info on travel and lodging. Act fast before the April 19 deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026?

It is an event run by the Council of Europe and the European Youth Forum that gathers up to 120 young people in Strasbourg to share ideas and create solutions for stronger, more inclusive democracy.

When and where does the programme happen?

The main event 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 join the Youth Innovating Democracy Programme 2026?

People aged 18 to 35 from European Cultural Convention countries who speak English or French well, such as youth group reps, council members, activists, and those who can share the results afterward.

How do I apply for the programme?

Fill out the online form at the official link by April 19, 2026, and explain how you meet the criteria and what you can contribute.