Young people today navigate an information space shaped by algorithms, platforms and growing disinformation. At the same time, journalists, whose role is essential in verifying facts and ensuring access to reliable information are increasingly exposed to threats, harassment and intimidation. Where journalists are unsafe, disinformation spreads more easily, public trust declines and democratic participation weakens.

The initiative Youth Facing Disinformation - Why Journalists Matter, supported under the Monaco Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, places young people at the centre of efforts to defend freedom of expression, information integrity and democratic resilience.

Organised under the Council of Europe’s Journalists Matter Campaign, in cooperation with the Youth Department’s project Youth Revitalising Democracy, the Strasbourg event will bring together selected grantees, young participants, journalists, media creators, policymakers and experts. It will combine a high-level conference with thematic workshops on disinformation, media literacy, journalist safety and youth engagement.

The event will also provide a platform for selected grantees to present their projects, exchange with peers and experts, and explore visibility, dissemination and partnership opportunities. These discussions will support outreach and impact, while the funded projects remain fully defined and under the responsibility of the selected grantees

Want to be part of the conversation? Join the Strasbourg event and exchange with young peers, journalists and experts from across Europe. Take part in interactive discussions and workshops, share your perspectives and ideas, and connect around how to tackle disinformation and support quality journalism

Call for participation will be announced end of June 2026

The call for grants is open now. Apply with a fully developed project and bring it to life. Up to four grants of €5,000 will be awarded, and selected projects will be showcased at the Strasbourg event, offering visibility, exchange and connection with peers and experts.

Who can apply?

Applications may be submitted by individuals*, legally established entities (such as NGOs, media organisations or educational institutions), or consortia of individuals and/or entities based in a Council of Europe member State.

Applicants should note that managing a grant involves administrative, financial and reporting responsibilities. Applications submitted by legal entities, or by groups including a legal entity, are therefore strongly encouraged.

*Individual applicants may apply independently but must ensure they have the capacity to manage the grant and comply with all related obligations.

See the relevant documents below: