Young leaders passionate about democracy, human rights, and civic participation have an exciting opportunity to participate in one of Europe’s most influential democratic events. The WFD Youth Delegation Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for young people from around the world to attend the World Forum for Democracy in Strasbourg, France. Organized by the Council of Europe, this prestigious program brings together emerging youth leaders, policymakers, activists, and experts to discuss innovative solutions to global democratic challenges.
Study Grants & Scholarships
The scholarship covers all major expenses, including international travel, visa costs, accommodation, meals, and participation in the World Forum for Democracy. Participants also benefit from pre-event training and networking opportunities with influential leaders working to strengthen democratic governance across Europe and beyond.
Applications are now open for the 2026 edition, with the application deadline set for 14 August 2026 at 14:00 Strasbourg time. If you are between 18 and 30 years old and actively involved in a youth organization promoting democracy or youth participation, this could be the perfect opportunity to expand your international experience and make a meaningful contribution to democratic dialogue.
Overview of the WFD Youth Delegation Scholarship 2026
The WFD Youth Delegation is designed to ensure that young people play an active role in shaping discussions on democracy, civic engagement, and public participation. Every year, approximately 50 young delegates are selected to represent youth organizations and movements from around the world.
The program combines online preparation, in-person training, participation in the World Forum for Democracy, and a dedicated Youth Day that encourages participants to exchange ideas and develop practical recommendations for democratic innovation.
Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | WFD Youth Delegation Scholarship 2026 |
| Host Organization | Council of Europe |
| Event | World Forum for Democracy |
| Host Country | France |
| Location | Strasbourg |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Age | 18–30 Years |
| Eligible Applicants | International Youth Representatives |
| Language | English |
| Application Deadline | 14 August 2026 (14:00 Strasbourg Time) |
| Forum Dates | 2–3 November 2026 |
| Youth Day | 4 November 2026 |
| Training | 31 October–1 November 2026 |
What Is the World Forum for Democracy?
The World Forum for Democracy is an annual international gathering organized by the Council of Europe, the continent’s leading human rights organization.
The Forum provides a unique platform where political leaders, civil society organizations, academics, journalists, youth representatives, and democracy advocates discuss practical solutions to challenges affecting democratic societies.The 2026 Forum will focus on democratic security and the New Democratic Pact for Europe, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation, democratic resilience, and innovative governance in today’s rapidly changing world.The Youth Delegation ensures that young voices are represented during these important discussions.
Knowledge Management
Why Apply for the WFD Youth Delegation Scholarship?
Participating in the World Forum for Democracy offers much more than attending an international conference.
Delegates become part of an influential global network dedicated to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting active citizenship.The experience provides opportunities to:
- Learn directly from international experts.
- Exchange ideas with young leaders from different countries.
- Build lifelong professional networks.
- Develop leadership and communication skills.
- Contribute youth perspectives to global democratic debates.
- Gain international recognition through participation in a prestigious Council of Europe program.
For students, activists, youth workers, and emerging professionals, this experience can significantly strengthen both academic and professional profiles.
Scholarship Benefits
The WFD Youth Delegation Scholarship is fully funded, ensuring that selected participants can focus entirely on learning, collaboration, and engagement.
Participation in the World Forum for Democracy
Delegates attend the main Forum on:
- 2 November 2026
- 3 November 2026
During the Forum, participants join discussions, workshops, debates, and networking events with international policymakers and civil society leaders.
Education
Youth Day Participation
A dedicated Youth Day takes place on 4 November 2026.This special event allows delegates to:
- Share experiences.
- Develop policy recommendations.
- Present youth perspectives.
- Collaborate on innovative democratic solutions.
Pre-Event Training
Before the Forum begins, delegates participate in intensive training on:
- 31 October 2026
- 1 November 2026
The training prepares participants for discussions and strengthens their understanding of democratic governance and current political challenges.
Fully Covered Travel Costs
The Council of Europe covers international travel expenses for selected delegates.
Participants do not need to worry about airfare or transportation costs.
Visa Support
Where required, visa costs are fully covered by the Council of Europe.
This financial support removes an important barrier for international participants.
Accommodation and Meals
Selected delegates stay at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg throughout the program.
Accommodation and meals are fully provided, allowing participants to focus entirely on the event.
Online Preparatory Sessions
Before arriving in France, participants join online preparation sessions during September and October 2026.These sessions introduce the Forum themes, encourage networking among delegates, and prepare participants for productive discussions.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must satisfy all eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be between:18 and 30 years old at the time of participation.
English Language Skills
Since all activities are conducted in English, applicants must be able to:
- Communicate confidently.
- Participate in discussions.
- Work independently in English.
No specific language test is mentioned, but practical fluency is essential.
Organizational Representation
Applicants must represent:
- A youth organization, or
- A youth movement
that actively works on:
- Democracy
- Youth participation
- Civic engagement
- Innovative democratic practices
Individual applicants without organizational affiliation are generally not eligible.
Availability
Participants must be available throughout the entire program, including:
- Online preparation sessions.
- Pre-event training.
- World Forum for Democracy.
- Youth Day.
Partial participation is not permitted.
Community Engagement
Applicants should be capable of sharing what they learn within their organizations and local communities after the program concludes.
The Council of Europe encourages delegates to become ambassadors for democratic participation.
Previous Council of Europe Experience
Previous involvement in Council of Europe youth activities is considered an advantage but is not mandatory.
New applicants are welcome provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Program Timeline
Applicants should carefully note the important dates.
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Preparation | September–October 2026 |
| Pre-Event Training | 31 October–1 November 2026 |
| World Forum for Democracy | 2–3 November 2026 |
| Youth Day | 4 November 2026 |
Participants should reserve sufficient time to attend every stage of the program.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted entirely online.
Step 1: Read the Program Information
Carefully review the official concept note and eligibility requirements before starting your application.
Understanding the program objectives will help you prepare a stronger application.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill out the official application form accurately.
Ensure all requested information is complete and truthful.
Step 3: Verify Eligibility
Before submitting your application, confirm that you:
- Meet the age requirement.
- Represent an eligible youth organization.
- Can communicate effectively in English.
- Are available for all program activities.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications must be submitted no later than:14 August 2026 at 14:00 Strasbourg time
Late applications are not accepted.
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated using several criteria.
The Council of Europe considers:
- Applicant age.
- Organizational affiliation.
- English communication skills.
- Motivation and commitment.
- Ability to share outcomes within the community.
- Previous involvement with Council of Europe youth initiatives (where applicable).
Successful applicants demonstrate leadership potential and a genuine commitment to democratic participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WFD Youth Delegation?
It is a group of approximately 50 young leaders selected to participate in the World Forum for Democracy and represent youth perspectives during discussions on democratic governance.
Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes.
The program covers:
Study Grants & Scholarships
- International travel
- Visa costs
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Training
- Participation in all official activities
Where does the program take place?
The program is hosted in Strasbourg, France, at venues associated with the Council of Europe and the European Youth Centre Strasbourg.
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Represent a youth organization or movement.
- Speak English.
- Participate throughout the full program.
Is there an application fee?
No.
Applying for the WFD Youth Delegation Scholarship is completely free.
Can individuals apply without belonging to an organization?
No.
Applicants must represent an eligible youth organization or youth movement working on democracy or youth participation.
What happens after the Forum?
Participants are expected to share knowledge, experiences, and recommendations within their organizations and communities.
Knowledge Management
This follow-up work extends the impact of the program beyond the event itself.
Tips for a Successful Application
Competition for this prestigious opportunity is expected to be high.
Applicants can improve their chances by:
- Demonstrating active involvement in youth initiatives.
- Explaining their commitment to democratic participation.
- Highlighting leadership experience.
- Showing how they will share knowledge after returning home.
- Submitting a complete application before the deadline.
- Carefully reviewing the program objectives before writing their responses.
A thoughtful and well-prepared application can significantly strengthen your chances of selection.
Why Participate in the World Forum for Democracy?
The WFD Youth Delegation offers more than international travel. It provides a rare opportunity to engage directly with global decision-makers while contributing to meaningful conversations about democracy, governance, and civic participation.
Delegates gain practical leadership experience, build international networks, and develop skills that can benefit their careers in public policy, civil society, international development, education, and advocacy.
The program also empowers young people to become changemakers who promote democratic values within their own communities.
