University on Youth and Development 2026: AI, Youth, and Peace
The 25th University on Youth and Development (UYD) is seeking partners for its 2026 event in Spain. This significant international gathering will focus on artificial intelligence (AI), youth engagement, and peacebuilding. The event aims to bring together youth-led and youth-oriented organizations to discuss and develop strategies around responsible AI governance, cyber safety, and digital peace. Scheduled for September 13-20, 2026, in Mollina, Spain, the UYD provides a platform for dialogue, advocacy, and leadership development for young people worldwide.
What is the University on Youth and Development?
Since its inception in 2000, the University on Youth and Development has grown into a key international forum. It connects youth organizations, institutions, decision-makers, and young leaders. Annually held in Mollina, Spain, the UYD offers a collaborative environment where various groups can host their own training sessions, workshops, and discussions. The event typically draws hundreds of participants globally, focusing on youth policies, social development, leadership, peacebuilding, democracy, and the Sustainable Development Goals. The 2026 edition specifically highlights the growing influence of artificial intelligence on youth and society.
2026 Theme: AI, Youth, and Peace
The central theme for the 2026 University on Youth and Development is “AI, Youth, and Peace: Preventing cybercrime and digital harm through responsible AI governance.” This theme addresses the critical need to understand and manage the impact of AI on education, communication, employment, and social interactions. It emphasizes equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to navigate digital spaces safely and responsibly. Key questions the event will explore include how youth can develop AI literacy, the skills needed for AI-driven environments, and their role in ethical AI governance and preventing cybercrime. The program encourages youth participation in discussions about digital rights, online safety, and technology for peace.
Why Organizations Should Participate
Organizations that partner with the 25th UYD will gain international visibility and connect with a diverse network of youth organizations, institutions, and policy experts. This collaboration offers opportunities for capacity building through high-level discussions and peer-learning activities focused on AI governance and youth empowerment. Partners will contribute to global youth policy discussions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and promote youth as agents of positive social change. The event supports organizations dedicated to empowering young people and fostering ethical technology development.
Types of Activities for the UYD
Organizations are invited to propose activities that align with the annual theme. These can include trainings, workshops, seminars, board meetings, roundtable discussions, capacity-building sessions, networking events, policy dialogues, educational programs, and peer-learning activities. All proposed activities should connect to the broader themes of AI, digital governance, cyber safety, youth participation, peacebuilding, and ethical technology. The goal is to foster a rich program that addresses the complexities of AI and its impact on youth and peace.
How to Apply for Partnership
Interested organizations must carefully review the official documents, including the annual theme concept note and the call for activities, before submitting their proposals. Applicants need to understand the commitments and expectations of the partnership framework. Required documents include the Annual Theme Concept Note, Call for Activities, and the Activity Proposal Form. All activity proposals must be submitted by May 24, 2026. Selected organizations will become official partners for the 25th University on Youth and Development, contributing to the event’s success.
About the Organizers
The University on Youth and Development is organized under the iLEGEND III project, a joint initiative of the European Union and the Council of Europe, managed by the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe. This project reflects a commitment to enhancing global youth participation, intercultural dialogue, democratic engagement, and sustainable development through international cooperation. For organizations focused on youth empowerment, peacebuilding, ethical technology, and responsible AI governance, the 25th UYD offers a significant opportunity to engage with global stakeholders and influence the future of youth in the digital age.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University on Youth and Development (UYD)?
The UYD is an annual international forum held in Spain that brings together youth organizations, institutions, and leaders to discuss youth policies, social development, and peacebuilding.
What is the main theme for the 2026 UYD event?
The 2026 theme is ‘AI, Youth, and Peace: Preventing cybercrime and digital harm through responsible AI governance,’ focusing on the impact of AI on youth and society.
When and where will the 2026 UYD take place?
The event is scheduled for September 13-20, 2026, in Mollina, Spain.
How can organizations get involved in the 2026 UYD?
Organizations can apply to become partners by submitting proposals for activities like trainings, workshops, or discussions related to the event’s themes by May 24, 2026.
