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 edition of the World Forum for Democracy will take place in Strasbourg on 2-3 November 2026, under the title “Rupture or Renewal? Democratic Security for Our Future” in the framework of the New Democratic Pact for Europe. The New Democratic Pact for Europe, firmly focused on the future, is the Council of Europe’s response to these new challenges. Supported by the Council of Europe’s member states since 2025, the Pact provides a framework for reflecting on the future of European democracies and how to prepare for it. Over two years, the Council of Europe has conducted a broad consultation with its member states, regions, territories, civil society, and universities to better prepare for the future of democracy in Europe.
The World Forum for Democracy is a unique platform for political decision-makers and activists to debate solutions to key challenges for democracies worldwide. By identifying and analysing experimental initiatives and practices, the Forum highlights and encourages democracy innovations at the grassroots and their transfer on a systemic level to strengthen the foundations of democratic societies. The Forum thus contributes to the evolution of democracy towards more participatory and inclusive structures and institutions.
Timeline of engagement of the youth delegation
|
Online preparations |
Arrival Strasbourg |
Pre-event training |
World Forum for Democracy |
Youth Day |
Departure Strasbourg |
|
September-October |
30 October |
31 October-1 November |
2-3 November |
4 November |
5 November |
Profile of participants
The youth delegation will bring together up to 50 participants who reflect the diversity of young people around the world and offer a wide range of perspectives on democracy, including those already engaged in finding solutions and developing ideas to revive democratic systems where they are at risk.
Candidates should fulfil the following profile:
- Be aged 18-30 years old;
- Be able to work 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);
- Represent 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.
Practical information
All travel and visa costs are covered by the Council of Europe in accordance with its rules. Accommodation and meals are provided at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg.
30 October-5 November 2026
Strasbourg
Deadline to apply: 14 August 2026, 14:00 Strasbourg time
