Youth Advocacy for Democracy and Human Rights Training Course 2026 in France | Fully Funded Council of Europe Program

Applications are now open for the Youth Advocacy for Democracy and Human Rights Training Course 2026, organized by the Council of Europe Youth Department. This fully funded international training course will take place at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg, France, from 27 September to 4 October 2026.

The programme is designed to strengthen the advocacy skills of young leaders, youth workers, and representatives of youth organizations who are committed to promoting democracy, human rights, and meaningful youth participation. Participants will also have the unique opportunity to engage with the work of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, as the training runs alongside one of its plenary sessions. (Portal)

Training Summary

• Host Country: France
• Location: European Youth Centre Strasbourg
• Organizer: Council of Europe Youth Department
• Program: Youth Advocacy for Democracy and Human Rights Training Course 2026
• Program Dates: 27 September – 4 October 2026
• Funding: Fully Funded
• Application Deadline: 14 August 2026 (14:00 Strasbourg Time) (Portal)

Financial Benefits

Selected participants will receive:

• Full accommodation during the training
• Meals throughout the programme
• International travel reimbursement according to Council of Europe rules
• Visa cost reimbursement (where applicable)
• Training materials
• Certificate of participation
• Opportunities to network with youth leaders and experts from across Europe and beyond

Training Objectives

The programme aims to equip participants with practical advocacy skills and strengthen youth participation in democratic processes. Participants will:

• Learn about the Council of Europe, its institutions, and human rights standards.
• Develop advocacy strategies based on human rights principles.
• Strengthen leadership and communication skills.
• Exchange good practices with youth organizations from different countries.
• Design advocacy initiatives that promote democracy and youth participation.
• Contribute to the Council of Europe’s Youth Revitalising Democracy project.

Who Can Apply?

The training course is intended for:

• Young activists and youth leaders
• Representatives of youth organizations and youth networks
• Youth workers engaged in democracy and human rights
• Individuals committed to promoting democratic participation and human rights
• Applicants who can actively participate in the full programme and work effectively in English

Why Apply?

This training offers an exceptional opportunity to:

• Gain practical advocacy and leadership skills.
• Build international networks with youth leaders and civil society organizations.
• Learn directly from Council of Europe experts.
• Understand European standards on democracy and human rights.
• Enhance your professional profile through an internationally recognized training programme.
• Participate in discussions taking place alongside the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

1. Read the official call for participants carefully.
2. Complete the online application through the Council of Europe application platform.
3. Submit the application before 14 August 2026 (14:00 Strasbourg Time).
4. Wait for the selection results from the Council of Europe.