Fully Funded Opportunity to Attend the World Forum for Democracy in France 2026
Applicant criteria
- 18 - 30
- Both
Opportunity criteria
Opportunity description
The Council of Europe invites young people to join the youth delegation at the World Forum for Democracy 2026, which will take place in Strasbourg, France, under the theme: “Breakthrough or Breakdown? Democratic Security for Our Future.”
Selected participants will take part in an online preparatory program during September and October, followed by an in-person training course for the youth delegation. They will then attend the sessions of the World Forum for Democracy and participate in Youth Day.
The program aims to bring young people’s perspectives into discussions on the challenges facing democratic systems and to develop ideas and practices that promote inclusive and participatory democracy.
Benefits
- Coverage of travel expenses.
- Coverage of visa costs in accordance with Council of Europe regulations.
- Accommodation at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg.
- Meals throughout the activity.
- Participation in specialized training before the forum.
- Attendance at the World Forum for Democracy sessions.
- Participation in Youth Day.
- Networking with approximately 50 young people from different countries and backgrounds.
- Opportunities to meet decision-makers, activists, and experts in democracy and youth participation.
Eligibility criteria
- Be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Be able to work and communicate independently in English.
- Commit to all stages of the program, including the online preparations and in-person participation in France.
- Represent a youth organization or youth movement operating at the local, regional, national, or international level.
- Be affiliated with an organization or movement working in democracy, youth participation, or the development of innovative democratic practices.
- Be able to share the forum’s outcomes and apply them within their organization or local community after returning home.
- Previous participation in activities organized by the Council of Europe’s Youth Department is considered an advantage but is not required.
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