Young Voices for Europe 2026 offers a chance for young people to help shape the EU’s next youth strategy. This fully funded event takes place in Lyon, France, from July 15 to 17, 2026. It brings together 30 participants aged 18 to 30 for talks with European Commissioner Glenn Micallef on youth issues.
The event focuses on youth policy dialogue. No past experience in policy is needed. Organizers want diverse voices from across Europe to join discussions that could change future EU plans for young people.
Why This Event Matters
Europe is working on its next Youth Strategy. This dialogue lets young people add their ideas directly. It covers topics like better youth involvement and fixes for current problems. The goal is to make policies that truly help young Europeans.
By attending, you can push for changes in areas that affect daily life. This step boosts democracy and makes sure youth have a real say in Europe-wide decisions.
Main Discussion Topics
Participants will talk about key areas in small groups.
Making Youth Participation Inclusive
Talks will look at ways to include everyone, no matter their background. This means people from different social classes, economies, ethnicities, disabilities, education levels, or locations. The focus is on giving every young person a voice in policies.
Tackling Big Challenges for Youth
The group will share views on issues like jobs, mental health, education, housing, digital changes, climate action, and more. Personal stories and simple fixes will come up. This helps spot what young people need most.
Creating a Youth-Focused EU Strategy
Discussions aim to find gaps in current support. Participants will suggest new ideas and ways to involve youth more. This builds stronger plans across Europe.
Who Can Apply
You qualify if you meet these rules:
- Age 18 to 30.
- Live in geographical Europe.
- Speak English well.
- Free to attend in Lyon from July 15 to 17, 2026.
- Never joined a Youth Policy Dialogue before.
Applications welcome from all backgrounds.
What the Funding Covers
Everything is paid for selected people:
- Travel to Lyon.
- Hotel for July 15 and 16.
- Meals at the event.
- Local travel and transfers.
- Side activities.
- Chances to network with other youth leaders.
This setup lets anyone join without money worries.
Extra Experiences
Beyond talks, enjoy Lyon through group activities. This builds friendships, cultural swaps, and lasting links with peers from other countries. The event mixes policy with fun and learning.
How to Apply
Fill out the EU Survey form online. You need:
- Name, nationality, job, contact info.
- Answers to questions on youth in policymaking.
- A 200-word response on your chosen topic.
Pick your top discussion topic in the form. Selected people must join one online prep meeting first. This covers goals, themes, and intros.
Apply here: EU Survey form.
Application Deadline
Submit by May 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET. Apply soon to avoid missing out.
Reasons to Join Young Voices for Europe 2026
This goes beyond a free trip. You can influence EU policies, meet leaders, build skills in speaking and leading, gain global views, grow networks, and help Europe’s future. Many see it as a key step for careers in policy or youth work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Young Voices for Europe 2026?
You can apply if you are aged 18 to 30, live in geographical Europe, speak English well, are free to attend in Lyon from July 15 to 17, 2026, and have not joined a previous Youth Policy Dialogue.
What does the funding cover for selected participants?
Funding includes travel to Lyon, hotel for July 15 and 16, meals during the event, local travel, transfers, side activities, and networking chances.
How do I apply for the event?
Complete the online EU Survey form with your name, nationality, job, contact info, answers to youth policymaking questions, and a 200-word response on your chosen topic.
What is the application deadline?
Submit your application by May 13, 2026, at 23:59 CET to avoid missing out.
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