Brief Information
The Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026 is an initiative by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) designed to connect young local and regional politicians across Europe. The programme allows emerging political leaders to exchange ideas, engage with EU institutions, and contribute to discussions on European legislation and policies.
Participants gain direct exposure to EU policymaking processes, build international networks, and collaborate with political leaders shaping the future of Europe.
Key Dates & Details
- Programme: Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026
- Organiser: European Committee of the Regions (CoR)
- Application Deadline: 17 April 2026
- Results Announcement: June 2026
- Location / Type: EU-level activities (Brussels and online events)
- Target Group: Young elected politicians (18–35 years old)
- Application Language: English
- Eligible Countries: EU Member States and EU candidate countries
- Programme Focus: EU policymaking, networking, leadership development
Table of Contents
Overview
The Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026 provides an exceptional platform for young political leaders to actively engage with the European Union’s policymaking ecosystem. Organized by the European Committee of the Regions, the programme aims to strengthen collaboration between local governments and EU institutions.
Participants will join a vibrant network of young leaders from across Europe and EU candidate countries. Through workshops, conferences, and policy debates, members of the programme will explore key EU initiatives, discuss regional challenges, and exchange best practices in governance and public leadership.
One of the main objectives of the programme is to ensure that the voices of young elected officials are represented in EU-level discussions. Participants may collaborate with CoR rapporteurs on policy topics related to their interests, gaining firsthand experience in how EU legislation and regional development policies are designed.
The Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026 also provides a unique opportunity to explore EU funding instruments and cooperation programmes that support local development projects. By connecting young politicians with experienced policymakers and EU officials, the programme fosters knowledge-sharing and strengthens democratic participation across Europe.
Additionally, the initiative encourages long-term cooperation among young political leaders who are committed to innovation, sustainable development, and democratic governance.
Eligibility
To apply for the Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application
- Hold an elected mandate at local or regional level
- Be from an EU Member State or an EU candidate country
- Have a strong interest in European policymaking and regional development
- Submit the application in English
The programme is also open to politicians from EU candidate countries, including:
- Albania
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Georgia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Serbia
- Türkiye
- Ukraine
Applicants who have already been accepted into the programme in previous calls are automatically considered members and do not need to apply again.
Application Details
Interested candidates must complete and submit the official Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026 application form before the deadline.
The application process includes providing details about your elected position, political experience, and motivation for joining the programme. Selected participants will gain access to networking events, EU policy discussions, and activities organized by the Committee of the Regions.
Applicants will be notified about the results of the selection process in June 2026.
For broader context about EU regional governance and policymaking, you may visit the official European Committee of the Regions website:
https://cor.europa.eu/
FAQ
Who can apply for the Young Elected Politicians Programme 2026?
Young politicians aged 18–35 who hold an elected mandate at local or regional level in EU Member States or EU candidate countries.
Do I need to be from an EU member state?
No. Applicants from EU candidate countries are also eligible to apply.
Is the programme fully funded?
Participation in many programme activities is organized by the Committee of the Regions, and participants gain access to EU policy discussions, networking events, and institutional engagement opportunities.
When will applicants be notified of the results?
All applicants will receive the results of their applications in June 2026.
Official Link
Apply and learn more about the programme through the official application portal:
Official Call:
https://cor.europa.eu/en
Application Form:
https://assets-eur.mkt.dynamics.com/
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