About the Event
The You(th)4Participation meeting is a European-level gathering designed for young people actively engaged in advisory and decision-making roles within National Agencies and SALTO Resource Centres. It provides a dynamic space for:
- Sharing experiences of youth participation in governance structures
- Learning from peers across Europe
- Exchanging good practices and challenges
- Reflecting on meaningful participation and how to strengthen it
- Contributing expertise to the future of the Erasmus+ Programme
- Building long-term connections and networks
This initiative builds on Aim 5 of the European Youth Participation Strategy, which emphasizes strengthening young people’s roles in governance and decision-making within European youth programmes.
Aims of the Meeting
The meeting is designed to inspire, empower, and equip young participants. Its key aims include:
- Creating a dynamic space for mutual inspiration and collective reflection
- Exchanging experiences, challenges, and good practices of youth involvement
- Identifying enabling factors for meaningful youth participation in institutions
- Exploring practical dos and don’ts of youth involvement
- Highlighting opportunities for young people to take advisory roles
- Strengthening motivation and confidence to initiate or improve youth involvement mechanisms
- Discussing the future of Erasmus+ and shaping its development in line with the Youth Participation Strategy
How Will We Work?
The meeting will follow a hands-on, interactive format with opportunities for:
- Group discussions and reflections
- Brainstorming and idea development
- Spotting common challenges and co-creating solutions
- Exploring ways to continue collaboration beyond the meeting
Participants will actively contribute their expertise, complemented by insights from researchers and invited speakers.
Expected Results
By the end of the meeting, participants and organisers aim to achieve:
- Increased knowledge about the work of National Agencies and opportunities for youth involvement
- Strengthened motivation and capacity among young people to develop or enhance participation mechanisms
- Inspirational material for National Agencies and SALTO Centres seeking to implement shared decision-making structures
- A summary of potential improvements in youth involvement processes
- Recommendations for the next generation of European youth programmes
Profile of Participants
This invitation is open to:
- Young people actively involved in advisory or decision-making roles within National Agencies or SALTO Resource Centres
- Representatives engaged in the implementation of the Youth Participation Strategy
- Members of youth boards or other youth representation bodies connected to National Agency or SALTO work
Special invitation: Participants facing exclusion or barriers to participation are strongly encouraged to apply. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Young people with health conditions or disabilities
- Those facing educational difficulties
- Individuals experiencing discrimination
- Youth from socially, economically, or geographically disadvantaged backgrounds
The meeting is expected to gather approximately 40–50 participants.
Practical Information
- Dates: 15–17 May 2026 (travel days: 14 and 18 May)
- Venue: JUGEND für Europa, Bonn, Germany
- Working language: English
- Accessibility: The venue is accessible to people with disabilities
Costs and Support
- Participation fee: Financed by participating National Agencies of the Erasmus+ Youth in Action Programme. The fee varies by country. Contact your National Agency or SALTO Resource Centre for details.
- Accommodation and food: Covered by the hosting National Agency or SALTO Resource Centre.
- Travel reimbursement: Contact your National Agency or SALTO to confirm support for travel costs. If approved, they will guide you through the booking and reimbursement process.
- Youthpass certificate: Participants will receive a Youthpass certificate recognizing their competence development during the activity.
Application Procedure
- Application deadline: 25 January 2026 (24h UTC)
- Date of selection: 16 February 2026
Interested participants should apply through the official SALTO Training Calendar portal.
The You(th)4Participation meeting is more than just a conference, it is a collaborative platform where young changemakers can exchange knowledge, shape future programmes, and strengthen youth participation across Europe. By bringing together diverse voices, the event ensures that the next generation of European youth programmes reflects inclusivity, empowerment, and meaningful involvement. Apply now.
