Imagine sitting in the same room as policymakers, civil society leaders, academics, and fellow young changemakers from around the world—sharing ideas that could influence the future of democracy.
For many young people committed to civic engagement, youth leadership, and democratic participation, opportunities to contribute at an international level are rare. The World Forum for Democracy Youth Delegation 2026 aims to change that.
Applications are now open for young leaders aged 18 to 30 to join the international Youth Delegation at the World Forum for Democracy, taking place in Strasbourg, France. Organised by the Council of Europe, the Forum provides a platform for meaningful dialogue on democratic innovation, youth participation, and the future of democratic institutions.
The 2026 edition will explore the timely theme:
“Rupture or Renewal? Democratic Security for Our Future.”
Through discussions, workshops, and collaborative exchanges, participants will contribute fresh perspectives to conversations shaping democratic resilience across Europe and beyond.
Editor’s Note: Programme information, eligibility requirements, and event dates are based on the current call for applications. Applicants should verify any updates on the official Council of Europe webpage before applying.
About the World Forum for Democracy Youth Delegation
The World Forum for Democracy is an annual international platform organised by the Council of Europe that brings together political leaders, policymakers, researchers, civil society organisations, journalists, and young people to discuss the most pressing challenges facing democratic societies.
The Youth Delegation ensures that young voices are represented in these conversations by providing opportunities for participants to contribute ideas, exchange experiences, and showcase innovative democratic practices from their communities.
The 2026 Forum will also contribute to discussions surrounding the New Democratic Pact for Europe, an initiative focused on strengthening democratic participation, institutional resilience, and public trust.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Democracy continues to face challenges ranging from political polarisation and misinformation to declining civic participation and emerging technological risks.
Young people are often among those most affected, yet they are also uniquely positioned to develop creative, community-driven solutions.
Participating in the Youth Delegation offers an opportunity to engage directly with international decision-makers, learn from democratic innovations around the world, and return home equipped to strengthen civic engagement within local communities.
Programme Objectives
The Youth Delegation seeks to:
- Strengthen democratic participation among young people.
- Promote innovative democratic practices.
- Encourage grassroots civic initiatives.
- Explore solutions to global democratic challenges.
- Support inclusive and participatory democratic institutions.
- Facilitate dialogue between youth leaders and policymakers.
- Contribute to the implementation of the New Democratic Pact for Europe.
What Participants Will Do
Selected delegates will:
- Participate in the World Forum for Democracy.
- Attend Youth Delegation preparation sessions.
- Engage in interactive discussions with policymakers, experts, and civil society leaders.
- Share experiences and democratic innovations from their communities.
- Analyse successful democratic initiatives from around the world.
- Develop recommendations for strengthening democratic participation.
- Promote the Forum’s outcomes within their organisations and communities after the event.
Programme Schedule
Participants must be available for the entire programme.
September – October 2026
- Online preparation activities
31 October – 1 November 2026
- Youth Delegation training
2 – 3 November 2026
- World Forum for Democracy
4 November 2026
- Youth Day
Venue: Strasbourg, France
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Be able to communicate and work independently in English.
- Be available throughout the entire programme.
- Represent a youth organisation or youth movement.
- Be actively involved in democracy, civic participation, youth engagement, or related initiatives.
- Commit to sharing the Forum’s outcomes within their communities after participation.
Preferred Applicant Profile
While not mandatory, preference may be given to applicants who:
- Promote democratic participation.
- Develop innovative democratic initiatives.
- Work with youth organisations.
- Support civic engagement.
- Advocate for inclusive democratic practices.
- Demonstrate leadership within their communities.
Previous participation in Council of Europe Youth Sector activities or programmes supported by the European Youth Foundation is considered an advantage but is not required.
Selection Criteria
Applications are expected to be assessed based on:
- Commitment to democracy and civic participation.
- Leadership potential.
- Experience in youth engagement.
- Motivation to participate.
- Ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions.
- Capacity to share knowledge after the Forum.
- English language proficiency.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of being selected:
Demonstrate Real Impact
Describe projects or initiatives where you’ve actively contributed to your community rather than simply listing memberships.
Share Leadership Experiences
Highlight situations where you’ve organised activities, led campaigns, or inspired others.
Connect Your Experience to Democracy
Explain how your work promotes participation, inclusion, human rights, accountability, or civic engagement.
Write a Genuine Motivation Statement
Clearly explain why participating matters to you and how you intend to apply the experience afterwards.
Explain Your Multiplier Effect
Show how you will share the knowledge, networks, and lessons gained with your organisation or wider community.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid:
- Submitting incomplete applications.
- Providing vague descriptions of your experience.
- Failing to demonstrate community involvement.
- Ignoring the full participation requirement.
- Writing generic motivation statements.
- Missing the application deadline.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Confirm they meet all eligibility requirements.
- Prepare the required application materials.
- Clearly explain their involvement in youth leadership or democracy-related initiatives.
- Write a compelling motivation statement.
- Highlight leadership and civic engagement experience.
- Submit the completed application before the deadline.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 14 August 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues. APPLY HERE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Young people aged 18–30 from around the world who are actively involved in youth organisations, democracy initiatives, or civic participation.
Where will the Forum take place?
The World Forum for Democracy will be held in Strasbourg, France.
How many participants will be selected?
Up to 50 young people are expected to join the international Youth Delegation.
Is English required?
Yes. Participants must be able to work independently in English throughout the programme.
Is previous Council of Europe experience required?
No. Previous participation is an advantage but is not mandatory.
What is the main goal of the Youth Delegation?
The programme enables young leaders to contribute ideas, engage with international policymakers, exchange democratic innovations, and strengthen civic participation within their own communities.
Final Thoughts
Strong democracies are built by citizens who choose to participate rather than remain on the sidelines.
If you’re passionate about youth leadership, civic engagement, democratic innovation, or strengthening public participation, the World Forum for Democracy Youth Delegation 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity to connect with global changemakers and contribute to conversations shaping the future of democratic societies.
The experience extends far beyond attending an international forum—it is an opportunity to return home with new ideas, stronger networks, and practical tools for creating lasting impact within your community.
Application Deadline: 14 August 2026
For complete eligibility requirements and application instructions, visit the official World Forum for Democracy application page or APPLY HERE
