Council of Europe Youth Advocacy for Democracy & Human Rights Training Course 2026: Apply Now

Applications are open for the Council of Europe Youth Advocacy for Democracy & Human Rights Training Course 2026. This funded opportunity is for young people aged 18-30 who want to develop their advocacy skills in democracy and human rights. The training will take place from September 27 to October 4, 2026, in Strasbourg, France.

Application Closing Date: August 14, 2026
Location: Strasbourg, France
Programme Duration: 7 days (September 27 – October 4, 2026)
Stipend: Not specified (all travel, accommodation, and meals are covered)
Minimum Qualification: Not specified (focus on leadership role and commitment)
Opportunity Type: Training Course

About the Council of Europe Youth Advocacy for Democracy & Human Rights Training Course

This training course is the third edition organized by the Council of Europe Youth Department. It is designed to empower youth civil society and young activists. The goal is to enhance their ability to advocate for human rights and democracy. Participants will learn how to ensure a youth perspective in the Council of Europe’s work. They will also advocate for the implementation of Council of Europe standards at national and local levels.

The course is part of the “Youth Revitalising Democracy” project. It aims to help youth organizations maximize their capacity to influence policy and politics. This includes action at local, national, and international levels. The training will equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective advocates.

About the Council of Europe

The Council of Europe is an international organization committed to promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Europe. It works to find common solutions to the challenges facing European society. The organization’s activities include protecting human rights, promoting cultural diversity, and tackling social issues. The Youth Department specifically focuses on empowering young people and supporting their participation in democratic processes.

Available Training Opportunities

This training course focuses on advocacy for democracy and human rights. While specific fields are not listed as separate opportunities, the core focus is on developing these advocacy skills within youth civil society.

What the Training Course Offers

Successful participants will gain valuable skills and experience. The Council of Europe covers all travel and visa costs according to its rules. Accommodation and meals will be provided at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg. Participants will receive structured training in advocacy, human rights, and democracy. They will also gain exposure to international policy-making processes.

The course offers a unique opportunity to network with other young activists and representatives. It provides a platform to develop advocacy campaigns and initiatives. Participants will learn how to effectively engage with the Council of Europe and influence policy.

Programme Duration and Location

The training course will take place from September 27 to October 4, 2026. This includes arrival and departure dates. The venue is the European Youth Centre Strasbourg, located in Strasbourg, France. This location is significant as the training runs in parallel with a plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for this training course, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be aged between 18 and 30 years. Exceptions can be made if justified.
• Be a representative of a national youth council, international youth organization/network, or other youth civil society. This includes local and regional youth councils and youth branches of political parties.
• Hold a leadership position within their organization. This is to ensure follow-up advocacy campaigns and initiatives.
• Be committed to the values of the Council of Europe, including democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
• Be interested in youth participation and taking further action.
• Be motivated and able to participate in the entire training course and its follow-up.
• Be able to work autonomously in English.
• Be a resident in one of the state parties to the European Cultural Convention. Exceptions can be made if justified.

The Council of Europe welcomes applications from all candidates regardless of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.

Competencies Required

The ideal applicant will demonstrate several key competencies:

• Strong commitment to democracy and human rights.
• Leadership potential and experience within a youth organization.
• Motivation to engage in advocacy and policy influence.
• Ability to work effectively in English.
• Willingness to collaborate and participate actively in the training.
• Commitment to follow-up advocacy activities after the course.

Who Should Apply?

This training course is ideal for young leaders and activists who are passionate about democracy and human rights. If you are actively involved in a youth organization and want to enhance your advocacy skills, this opportunity is for you. It is particularly suited for those who wish to influence policy at local, national, or international levels and are eager to work with the Council of Europe.

Required Documents

While specific documents are not listed, applicants should be prepared to provide:

• A detailed CV outlining their experience and leadership roles.
• Information about their current organization and their position within it.
• A statement of motivation explaining their commitment to the Council of Europe’s values and their interest in the training.
• Proof of residency in a state party to the European Cultural Convention, if required.

Applicants should ensure they have all necessary information ready when completing the online application form.

How to Apply

The application deadline is August 14, 2026. To apply, please follow these steps:

• Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
• Prepare your CV and any other required information.
• Click here to apply for the Council of Europe Youth Advocacy for Democracy & Human Rights Training Course.
• Complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly.
• Submit your application before the closing date.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Participants must be able to commit to the full duration of the training course.
• All travel, accommodation, and meal costs will be covered by the Council of Europe.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is August 14, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date.

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