The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe is inviting young people aged 18–30 from all 46 member states to join the 2026 edition of the “Rejuvenating Politics” initiative, which will take place in two sessions in Strasbourg, France. The Congress Youth Delegates 2026 will be organised and covered by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities according to the Council of Europe’s rules.
About the Congress Youth Delegates Programme 2026
The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe is inviting young people aged 18–30 from all 46 member states to join the 2026 “Rejuvenating Politics” initiative. Selected youth delegates will participate directly in European political processes, contribute to debates, and implement a local project in their home community.
The programme offers a full-year experience that combines international political engagement with hands-on local action. Youth delegates take part in two official Congress sessions in Strasbourg, first from 31 March to 2 April 2026, and again from 27 to 29 October 2026, preceded by preparatory meetings that help them understand the Congress’s work and expectations.
Throughout the year, they receive guidance from experienced trainers as they design and implement their own grassroots project between April and September. In addition to the main sessions, delegates may also be invited to take part in other Congress activities, such as committee meetings, seminars, or conferences, giving them an even broader experience of European democratic processes.
Why Join as a Youth Delegate?
A unique one-year experience to:
- Sit with elected representatives during official debates
- Bring youth perspectives directly into European politics
- Gain international experience & networking opportunities
- Receive mentoring to create a meaningful project in your community
- Participate in additional events (committee meetings, conferences, etc.)
Eligibility | Who can apply?
To be a Youth Delegate, you should
- be open, committed and motivated to develop and strengthen dialogue between young people and elected representatives at the local/regional level;
- be aged between 18 and 30 years old on 31 December 2025;
- live in and hold the passport of one of the 46 Council of Europe member States;
- be active in youth work at local and regional levels;
- be available to engage in the whole of the activity, including the preparation of grassroots projects;
- have an interest in actively participating in policy-making at local and/or regional levels;
- be able to multiply the information obtained during the session on their return home;
- have good writing and public speaking skills;
- be committed to working in an intercultural team;
- speak English fluently.
Candidates must not :
- be elected representatives, whether at local, regional, national or European level;
- have participated in the initiative previously
Expenses and Benefits
- The youth delegates’ travel and subsistence expenses will be covered by the Congress of Local and
Regional Authorities according to the Council of Europe’s rules.
- Accommodation will be provided and paid for by the organisers, in single-occupancy or shared rooms
according to availability. The organisers cannot cover the cost of accommodation elsewhere.
Timeline
Application deadline: 15 December 2025, 23:59 CET
Selection results: 10 February 2025
First Session: 31 March – 2 April 2026 (Arrival 28 March – Departure 2 April)
Second Session: 27 – 29 October 2026 (Arrival 24 October – Departure 29 October)
How to apply?
If you're interested in joining the 2026 programme, including participation in both the 50th and 51st Congress sessions, you must submit your application exclusively through the online application form. Participation in only one session is not allowed.
Video Requirement
Applicants must also submit a short video (maximum 30 seconds) via an online link. Instructions for the video:
- The video title must include only the applicant’s name and country.
- The link must be submitted together with the application.
- The video must remain accessible until 27 February 2026.
- Candidates must not appear or introduce themselves on the video.
- The video must answer only the question specified in the application form.
- The video is an essential part of the application.
More Details
For more details about the Rejuvenating Politics – Congress Youth Delegates 2026, check the "Call for Participants - info-pack" or visit the opportunity webpage on the Council of Europe website HERE
By applying to this program, you take responsibility and risks. Inform yourself about the regulation and potential risks. "Opportunity 4U" cannot be held liable for any of the potential risks, and this post is only for informative and popularising purposes.
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