Youth Advocacy for Democracy and Human Rights Training Course (Strasbourg, France)

Overview & Description

Quick Summary: The Council of Europe Youth Department is accepting applications for the 3rd edition of the “Youth Advocacy for Democracy and Human Rights” training course. Taking place at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg, this fully funded opportunity empowers young leaders to advocate for human rights, democracy, and Council of Europe standards.

Overview / What This Opportunity Entails

Organized under the Youth Revitalising Democracy project, this training course runs alongside the plenary session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE).

The program equips youth civil society leaders and activists with the skills needed to influence politics and policy at local, national, and international levels. Participants will engage directly with Council of Europe experts and PACE members, building hands-on advocacy campaigns to dismantle barriers to youth democratic participation.

Core Details & Objectives

During the training course, selected participants will:

• Learn Institutions & Standards: Gain deep familiarity with Council of Europe standards regarding democracy, human rights, and youth participation.
• Build Strategy Competences: Develop skills in human rights-based advocacy and create actionable advocacy campaigns.
• Engage Decision-Makers: Attend PACE sessions and interact with members of parliament and institutional decision-makers.
• Drive National Action: Develop common initiatives to enhance youth participation in elections and establish formal youth advisory structures.

Self-Qualification: Do You Match the Profile?

The Council of Europe will select up to 30 participants based on the following criteria:

• Age: Between 18 and 30 years old (exceptions may be made if justified).
• Organizational Role: Representatives holding leadership positions in National Youth Councils, international youth networks, local/regional youth councils, or youth branches of political parties.
• Affiliation: Resident in one of the state parties to the European Cultural Convention (exceptions may be made if justified).
• Language Skills: Able to work autonomously in English (the official working language).
• Commitment: Fully committed to human rights, rule of law, and democracy, with the capability to implement follow-up advocacy initiatives in their home country.

Financial & Practical Support

The Council of Europe covers all core costs for selected participants:

• Travel & Visa: Travel expenses and visa fees are fully reimbursed upon complete attendance.
• Accommodation: Board and lodging (twin room sharing) are provided at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg.
• Accessibility: Accessible facilities and accommodations are available for participants with disabilities.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

To be considered by the selection committee, complete both mandatory steps before the deadline:

1. Complete Online Application: Fill out the official online application form provided by the Council of Europe.
2. Submit Support Letter: Request an official support letter from your sending youth organization.
3. Send Email Confirmation: Email your support letter to youthdemocracy@coe.int. Use the exact subject line: TC ADVOCACY “YOUR NAME” SUPPORT LETTER.

(Note: Selection results will be communicated to candidates by 1 September 2026).

How to Submit Your Application

Click the Apply Now button below to access the official portal and submit your details directly.