The study session “Reclaiming the Narratives: Empowering Marginalised Youth through Digital Advocacy” took place at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg from 16 to 20 February 2026. The activity was organised within the Youth for Democracy programme in co-operation with the Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) Youth network.

The five-day session brought together young activists from stateless, unrepresented, indigenous, and minority communities to build their skills in digital advocacy, storytelling, and media awareness. The aim was to help participants reclaim their narratives, challenge harmful messages, and take a more active role in democratic and human rights processes.

During the week, participants joined interactive workshops, expert sessions, and group work on topics like digital activism, citizen journalism, messaging, and communication strategies. On Wednesday, they also had the chance to meet Council of Europe staff working on digital security and on tackling misinformation and disinformation online.

The programme combined expert input with peer learning and networking, creating space for intercultural exchange and shared experiences. Participants also worked in teams to design digital advocacy projects for their own communities, presenting their ideas at the end of the session and strengthening their role as multipliers within the UNPO Youth network.

Overall, the session showed how important it is to equip marginalised youth with the tools, confidence, and connections they need to use digital spaces to promote participation, dialogue, and human rights.

 For more information, please visit the study session's dedicated webpage.