Deadline: 15 December 2025
Location: Strasbourg, France
Programme Duration: March – October 2026

The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe is inviting motivated young people aged 18–30 to apply for the prestigious 2026 edition of the “Rejuvenating Politics” initiative. This unique opportunity allows young leaders from across 46 European member States to directly engage with local and regional decision-makers, take part in high-level political debates, and implement their own grassroots projects back home.

If you’re passionate about democracy, youth participation, and political engagement, this programme offers one of the most impactful international youth leadership experiences in Europe.

What Is the “Rejuvenating Politics” Initiative?

Launched to amplify youth voices in European governance, “Rejuvenating Politics” integrates young people directly into the work of the Congress—beyond simply observing. Since 2014, youth delegates have taken active roles in debates, contributed to policy discussions, and built local projects that strengthen democratic participation.

The initiative aligns with the Congress’s mission to promote local and regional democracy, good governance, and citizen participation across Europe.

What Does the Programme Involve?

The 2026 youth delegate cycle includes two mandatory sessions held in Strasbourg, plus a project implementation phase between sessions.

1. Participate as a Youth Delegate in Two Congress Sessions

Youth delegates will take part in:

• 50th Session: 31 March – 2 April 2026
  (Arrival 28 March, 19:00 · Departure 2 April, after 17:00)

• 51st Session: 27–29 October 2026
  (Arrival 24 October, 19:00 · Departure 29 October, after 17:00)

Activities during sessions include:

• Sitting in the hemicycle alongside Congress members

• Joining debates and discussing thematic issues

• Attending preparatory and evaluation meetings

• Networking with elected officials and policymakers

Candidates must possess strong public speaking, analytical, and writing skills, as preparatory days require active engagement with policy documents and session agendas.

2. Develop a Grassroots Project in Your Community

Between April and September 2026, youth delegates design and implement a local or regional initiative inspired by Congress priorities or session debates. Projects may include:

• Conferences or workshops

• Digital tools (apps, podcasts, websites)

• School or community outreach

• Local awareness campaigns

• Creative media or youth-led dialogues

Delegates receive mentorship from experienced trainers, including idea development, project design, and progress feedback.

While the Congress does not fund projects directly, it provides:

• Official introduction letters

• Access to relevant Congress materials

• Visibility and opportunities for engagement

3. Additional Opportunities Throughout the Year

Selected youth delegates may also be invited to:

• Congress committee meetings

• Seminars and conferences in Strasbourg or abroad

• Events organised by other Council of Europe bodies

• External partner events where youth representation is needed

Why Apply? Key Benefits of Being a Youth Delegate

This highly competitive programme offers exceptional opportunities, including:

• Direct participation in international political processes

• Networking with elected officials from 46 European countries

• Mentorship and leadership development

• Hands-on project management experience

• Strengthened skills in public speaking, advocacy, and policy analysis

• A platform to amplify youth perspectives in European governance

Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)

Applicants must:

• Be 18–30 years old on 31 December 2025

• Live in and hold a passport from a Council of Europe member State

• Be actively engaged in youth work or civic activities

• Be committed to intercultural teamwork

• Be fluent in English

• Demonstrate strong writing and speaking abilities

• Be available for ALL programme activities in 2026

• Have an interest in local/regional governance and policymaking

Applicants must not:

• Be elected representatives

• Have previously participated in the “Rejuvenating Politics” initiative

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit:

1. Online Application Form

Provide detailed information on your experience, motivation, and interest in youth participation and governance.

2. A 30-Second Video

This video is not a self-introduction.
Applicants must answer the specific question listed on the application form.
The video must remain accessible until 27 February 2026.

Deadline: 23:59 CET, 15 December 2025

A selection panel—including Congress leadership, youth trainers, and members of the Advisory Council on Youth—will select a gender-balanced, diverse cohort.

Selected applicants will be notified by 10 February 2026.

Expenses, Travel & Accommodation

• Travel and subsistence costs are fully covered according to Council of Europe rules.

• Accommodation in Strasbourg will be provided in single or shared rooms.

• Delegates must stay in the accommodation arranged by the organisers.

How to Apply

👉 Click here to complete the official application form. 
📧 For questions: congress.youth@coe.int

Why This Opportunity Matters

Youth participation is essential to strengthening democracy across Europe. By becoming a Congress youth delegate, you contribute directly to:

• More inclusive policymaking

• Intergenerational dialogue

• Stronger youth-led democratic engagement

• Better local and regional governance

If you’re passionate about creating positive change in your community and shaping the future of democracy in Europe, this programme is for you.

Full details and link to application form: Call for applications

Contact:  Table Office

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You may also be interested in this Fully Funded Opportunity in Brussels 🇧🇪

Applications are open for Your Europe, Your Say! (YEYS) 2026 — a fully funded youth participation programme taking place on 19–20 March 2026.

🔗 Apply: https://wp.me/p23f03-h5r

✅ Open to:
• Secondary school students with a teacher
• Young adults active in student groups or youth-led initiatives

✈️ Fully Funded:
• Return travel
• Accommodation in Brussels
(covered by the EESC)

📅 Deadline: 30 November 2025
🔗 Apply: https://wp.me/p23f03-h5r

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