An open call for 50 participants from all over the world to join the youth delegation to the World Forum for Democracy and bring the youth perspective to the discussion on the New Democratic Pact for Europe. The youth delegation will have a dedicated training session two days before the World Forum for Democracy and will also take part in the Youth Day of the WFD on 4th November.
About the World Forum for Democracy The 14th World Forum for Democracy will be held in Strasbourg on 2–3 November 2026 under the theme "Rupture or Renewal? Democratic Security for Our Future." The event is part of the New Democratic Pact for Europe, an initiative launched by the Council of Europe to address emerging challenges facing democracy. Backed by its member states since 2025, the Pact aims to shape the future of European democracy by encouraging long-term thinking and preparedness. Over the past two years, the Council of Europe has worked closely with governments, regional authorities, civil society organisations, and academic institutions to gather ideas and develop a shared vision for strengthening democracy across Europe.
The World Forum for Democracy serves as a global platform where policymakers, experts, and civil society representatives exchange ideas and discuss practical responses to the challenges confronting democratic societies. By showcasing innovative grassroots initiatives and successful democratic practices, the Forum promotes their wider adoption and supports stronger, more resilient democratic systems. Through this exchange of ideas and experiences, the Forum helps advance democracy by encouraging greater participation, inclusion, and institutional development.
Eligibility | Who can apply?
- Young people aged between 18 and 30 from all over the world;
- English will be the main working language of the activity. Participants are required to be able to express themselves autonomously in English;
- Be available to take part in the entire activity, including online preparations (September – October 2026), the training of the youth delegation (31 October – 1 November), the World Forum for Democracy (2-3 November) and the Youth Day (4 November 2026);
- Be a representative for a youth organisation and/or youth movement active at local, regional, national or international level on topics of democracy, youth participation, innovative democratic practices;
- Be in a position to follow up the results of the World Forum for Democracy within their organisations and communities;
- Previous involvement with the Council of Europe youth sector in the field of democratic participation will be considered an asset, particularly in activities of the Youth Department or partners, including grantees of the European Youth Foundation, that have contributed to the New Democratic Pact for Europe.
Expenses and Benefits
- Travel expenses and visa fees for the World Forum for Democracy in Strasbourg will be
reimbursed according to the rules of the Council of Europe (Full participation in the 5-day
programme is a requirement for reimbursement).
- Participants are expected to arrive at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg on Friday, 30 October 2026, and depart on Thursday, 5 November 2026.
- Board and lodging for the activity will be provided and paid for by the Council of Europe at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg.
- Participants will be accommodated in twin rooms. The
European Youth Centres are accessible to people with disabilities and can take measures to
accommodate any access needs of participants in this respect. Please provide the
necessary information in your application form.
Timeline
Application deadline: Friday, 14 August 2026, 14:00 (Strasbourg time)
Online Preparations: September - October 2026
Arrival day: 30 October 2026
Pre-event training: 31 October - 1 November 2026
World Forum for Democracy: 2-3 November 2026
Youth Day: 4 November 2026
Departure day: 5 November 2026
How to apply?
All candidates must duly complete the online application form from THIS LINK, No later than 14 August 2026, 14:00 Strasbourg time.
In addition to the application form, participants are required to record a video with
themselves and share the link to the video in the application form:
• Introducing themselves
• Answering the question: what is the ONE key issue that the New Democratic Pact for Europe should address?
• Maximum duration of the video: 1 minute.
• Participants have to store the video online and share the link to the accessible video in the application form.
For more details about the forum, logistics, selection, and all information that you may need, kindly check the info-pack HERE
By applying for this forum, you take responsibility and risks. Inform yourself about the regulations 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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