Brief Information
The EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme offers young leaders from EU Member States the opportunity to represent European youth at the United Nations in New York. Selected delegates will participate in global discussions, advocate for youth interests, and contribute to EU positions on international issues.
This prestigious initiative strengthens youth representation in global governance while empowering young advocates to influence policy discussions at the UN and within the European Union.
Key Dates & Details
- Programme: EU UN Youth Delegates Programme 2026–2027
- Organisers: European Union, European Commission (DG INTPA), EU Delegation to the UN
- Application Deadline (for applicants): 3 April 2026 (17:00 CET)
- Nomination Deadline (National Youth Councils): 17 April 2026
- Programme Duration: 12 months (starting September 2026)
- Location: Hybrid – New York (UN Headquarters), Brussels, and other international events
- Eligibility: Citizens of EU Member States under 30 years old
- Number of Delegates Selected: 2
- Commitment: Approximately 40 days per year
External resource for additional context on global youth participation:
https://www.un.org/development/desa/youth/
Table of Contents
Overview
The EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme is a prestigious initiative designed to strengthen youth engagement in global governance and international policymaking. Through this programme, two young representatives from the European Union will be selected to advocate for the interests and rights of young people across Europe at the United Nations.
Participants will actively contribute to discussions within the UN General Assembly, relevant committees, and other international forums dealing with youth affairs, sustainable development, peace and security, and human rights. The initiative enables young leaders to collaborate with diplomats, policymakers, civil society organisations, and global youth networks.
One of the primary objectives of the EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme is to ensure that youth perspectives are integrated into international decision-making processes. Delegates will provide insights and recommendations that help shape EU policies related to youth engagement, international development, and global governance.
Delegates will also play an important role in coordinating with EU Member States’ Youth Delegates, the European Youth Forum, and various youth organisations. Through meetings, consultations, and communication activities, they will ensure that young Europeans’ views are reflected in discussions at the United Nations.
The programme also includes public engagement and communication activities. Delegates will participate in initiatives such as digital campaigns, podcasts, and social media outreach to share insights from international discussions and promote youth participation in global policymaking.
By joining the EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme, participants gain an exceptional opportunity to build international networks, develop leadership and diplomacy skills, and contribute to shaping policies that affect young people worldwide.
Eligibility
To apply for the EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of an EU Member State
- Be under 30 years old at the time of application
- Be willing to dedicate around 40 days per year to programme activities
- Have a strong interest in fields related to UN activities such as:
- International relations
- Political science
- Law and human rights
- International development
- Climate policy
- Public health
- Demonstrate experience or motivation in youth advocacy, organisations, or movements
- Be available to travel to New York and potentially Brussels or other locations
- Have excellent English communication skills and strong presentation abilities
- Possess strong communication and social media skills
The programme strongly encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and promotes gender equality and regional representation.
Application Details
Applicants interested in the EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme must submit their application through their National Youth Council.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter (maximum one page)
The motivation letter should highlight:
- Relevant experience
- Motivation to participate in the programme
- Potential contributions to youth representation at EU and UN levels
Application Process
- Submit application documents to your National Youth Council.
- National Youth Councils may conduct their own internal selection process.
- Selected candidates are nominated to the European Youth Forum and the European Commission.
- Shortlisted candidates will participate in interviews in May 2026.
Selection Timeline
- Call Launch: 4 March 2026
- Applicant Deadline: 3 April 2026
- Nomination Deadline: 17 April 2026
- Shortlist Announcement: 8 May 2026
- Interviews: 13–15 May 2026
- Final Results: Week of 25 May 2026
The selected delegates will start their mandate in September 2026 for a 12-month term.
FAQ
Who can apply for the EU UN Youth Delegates 2026 Programme?
Citizens of EU Member States under the age of 30 who are interested in youth advocacy and international affairs can apply through their National Youth Councils.
How many delegates will be selected?
Two EU Youth Delegates will be selected for the 2026–2027 programme cycle.
Do participants need to travel?
Yes. Delegates will travel to New York several times during the year and may also participate in meetings in Brussels or other international locations.
Is previous UN experience required?
No, but experience in youth organisations, advocacy, international relations, or policy work is highly beneficial.
Official Link
For full programme details and the official call for applications, visit:
You can also check the National Youth Councils list here:
https://www.youthforum.org/members
Visit more opportunities on Oppotify:
https://oppotify.com
