Young people, your voice matters. The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe invites young people to become youth delegates in the “Rejuvenating Politics” initiative for 2026. The programme offers the opportunity to take part in the work of a pan-European political assembly and to implement a personal project at local or regional level.
Participants will take part in two plenary sessions of the Congress in Strasbourg, France. The 50th session will be held from 31 March to 2 April 2026, and the 51st session from 27 to 29 October 2026. Alongside these sessions, each delegate will develop and carry out a project aimed at strengthening civic participation, youth policies, or local democracy within their own community.
The programme provides opportunities to join high-level debates and meetings, to exchange ideas and experience with representatives from 46 countries, and to develop leadership, organisational, and communication skills. Participation enables young people to gain practical insight, expand their network, and contribute to meaningful change in their society.
Applications are open to young people aged 18 to 30 as of March 2026 who are interested in local democracy and youth engagement. Suitable candidates include activists, students, young politicians, youth workers, and anyone committed to contributing to community-focused initiatives.
The application deadline is 15 December 2025. More information and the application form are available on the official website of the Council of Europe:
https://www.coe.int/en/web/congress/-/call-for-applications-for-young-people-to-take-part-in-the-2026-edition-of-the-congress-rejuvenating-politics-initiative
