Applications are now open for the World Forum for Democracy 2026 Youth Delegation in Strasbourg, France. Organised by the Council of Europe, this prestigious international forum will bring together young leaders, policymakers, civil society representatives, academics, and democracy experts from around the world to discuss innovative solutions to today's democratic challenges.
The forum offers a unique platform for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences, and contribute to discussions on democracy, human rights, youth participation, and civic engagement. Selected participants will receive full financial support, making it an excellent opportunity for young changemakers to represent their communities on a global stage.
The 2026 edition will be held at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg from 31 October to 4 November 2026.
Forum Summary
- Programme Name: World Forum for Democracy 2026
- Host Organization: Council of Europe
- Host Country: France
- Venue: European Youth Centre, Strasbourg
- Programme Type: Fully Funded Youth Forum
- Forum Dates: 31 October – 4 November 2026
- Number of Seats: 50
- Eligible Nationality: All Nationalities
- Application Deadline: 14 August 2026
Forum Theme
The World Forum for Democracy focuses on strengthening democratic values by bringing together young leaders and experts to discuss topics such as:
- Democracy and democratic innovation
- Human rights
- Youth participation
- Civic engagement
- Public policy
- Social inclusion
- Civil society development
- Leadership and international cooperation
Financial Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Round-trip travel reimbursement
- Free accommodation throughout the programme
- Meals during the forum
- Local transportation in Strasbourg
- Visa fee reimbursement (where applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Access to all forum sessions, workshops, and networking events
- Official certificate of participation
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants from all countries are eligible.
- Must be between 18 and 30 years of age.
- Should be able to communicate effectively in English.
- Must be actively involved in a youth organisation, NGO, or civil society initiative.
- Should have experience or a strong interest in democracy, human rights, civic engagement, or youth participation.
- Must be available to participate in all preparatory activities and attend the entire forum in Strasbourg.
Required Documents
Applicants generally need to submit:
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Motivation statement
- Details of youth, volunteer, or civil society engagement
- Any additional supporting documents requested by the organisers
Application Process
To apply for the World Forum for Democracy 2026:
- Visit the official Council of Europe application portal.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Carefully review your application before submission.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Wait for the selection results from the organisers.
Why Attend the World Forum for Democracy?
The World Forum for Democracy is one of the leading international platforms for discussing democratic governance and youth participation. Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Exchange ideas with young leaders from around the world.
- Learn from policymakers, academics, and democracy experts.
- Build an international professional network.
- Develop leadership and advocacy skills.
- Represent their country and community on a global platform.
- Gain valuable international experience in public policy and civic engagement.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the World Forum for Democracy 2026 is:
14 August 2026
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.
Official Call: https://www.coe.int/en/web/youth/-/call-for-participants-world-forum-for-democracy-youth-delegation
