- Brussels, Belgium
- March 19–20, 2026
- 180 Seats
Fully Funded Youth Programmein Brussels
A unique opportunity for young people aged 16–25 to explore EU policymaking, participate in real debates, and shape recommendations for European institutions.
About Event
Empowering Youth to Influence Tomorrow’s Europe
Your Europe, Your Say! (YEYS) 2026 is a flagship youth participation programme organised annually by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) since 2010.
This fully funded, in-person event brings together 100 motivated young people from EU Member States, EU candidate countries, and the UK to:
Learn how EU institutions shape policies
Debate key European challenges
Work in a youth assembly format
Co-create recommendations for the European Commission and European Parliament
YEYS is one of the EU’s most impactful youth engagement platforms, giving young people an authentic voice in shaping Europe’s future.
Event Dates: 19–20 March 2026
Location: EESC Headquarters, Brussels, Belgium
Format: In-person only
🎉 The Countdown Has Started
Get ready! The event is approaching fast—stay tuned as we count down to an inspiring experience.
WHY CHOOSE YEYS 2026?
- Fully funded travel & accommodation covered by EESC
- Exclusive access to EU policymakers and EESC members
- Hands-on workshops and interactive debate sessions
- Networking with young leaders from across Europe
- Opportunity to influence real EU recommendations
- Professional Skill Growth: public speaking, diplomacy, teamwork
- Prestigious international experience to boost CVs & applications
YEYS is more than an event — it’s a powerful stepping stone for future leaders, activists, and young changemakers.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Applications are open to:
- Are 16–25 years old
- Live in an EU Member State, EU candidate country, or the UK
- Are a student, youth activist, or member of a youth/civil society organisation
- Can communicate in English
- Have not participated in EU youth events in Brussels/Strasbourg/Luxembourg in the last 2 years
- Are motivated to contribute to youth policy discussions
- Are able to travel to Brussels and attend the full event in person
Registration
Your Access to the Fully Funded Youth Event in Belgium
Find the perfect participation route — whether you’re selected for full funding or joining independently — and experience YEYS 2026 in Brussels.
Fully Funded Plan
- Return travel to Brussels (flight/train/bus)
- Hotel accommodation for the event duration
- Participation in workshops & plenary sessions
- Meals during the event
- Official certificates
- Local transfers in Brussels
Invitation Plan
- Priority application handling
- Invitation letter for institutional support
- Hotel accommodation for the event duration
- Pre-event orientation webinar
- Event coordination support
- Participation confirmation document
- Full visa support
- Speaking Opportunity
Self-Funded Plan
- Guaranteed event entry
- Participation in all sessions
- Networking opportunities
- Event kit & materials
- Certificate of participation
- VISA & insurance costs
- Full visa support
- Meals during the event
Upcoming Events
Forum Themes for YEYS 2026
Young leaders from across Europe will collaborate, debate, and develop policy recommendations on the most important issues shaping the future of the European Union. These themes guide all workshops, discussions, and youth assemblies during the event.
1️⃣ European Democracy & Youth Participation
Explore how young people can play a stronger role in decision-making, contribute to European dialogues, and strengthen democratic engagement across the EU.
3️⃣ Digital Transformation & Innovation
Examine Europe’s digital future—from AI and emerging technologies to online safety, digital rights, and innovation opportunities for youth.
5️⃣ Economic Growth, Skills & Youth Employment
Identify ways to strengthen Europe’s economy through future skills, entrepreneurship, fair opportunities, and youth-focused employment strategies.
2️⃣ Green Transition & Sustainability
Discuss actionable youth-led solutions for climate change, clean energy, biodiversity, and a more sustainable Europe.
4️⃣ Social Inclusion, Equality & Human Rights
Address challenges related to inclusion, accessibility, equality, and human rights, ensuring that every young European can participate fully in society.
6️⃣ Peace, Security & European Cooperation
Explore how young people can contribute to peacebuilding, cross-border cooperation, and a safer, more united Europe in times of global uncertainty.
Event Venue
Join the leading global event focused on boosting economic growth and building stronger.
- Brussels, Belgium
- March 19–20, 2026
Our Previous Engagements
Morocco
From thought-provoking discussions to actionable workshops, this conference gave me the tools and confidence I needed to launch my own sustainability project.
Germany
The energy, diversity, and depth of ideas were simply unmatched. I've never felt more empowered as a youth leader.
Mei-Ling
Attending the Global Youth Conference opened so many doors. I met future collaborators and mentors who are now part of my journey.
Brazil
One of the best youth events I've ever attended. Practical, global, and truly empowering. I’ll definitely be back next year!
Tunisia
This conference is not just an event—it’s a movement. It taught me that youth voices matter, and together, we’re unstoppable.
Italy
From climate change to digital innovation, every session was packed with value. It felt amazing to be surrounded by changemakers.
Kenya
The networking alone was worth it—but the ideas and global connections I took home made it unforgettable.
Canada
I was nervous at first, but the environment was so welcoming. I left with new confidence, new friends, and a new vision for my future.
Spain
If you care about global change, this is the place to be. Every youth should attend this at least once in their life.
Argentina
Partners & Sponsor
Our Official Partners and Sponsor
We proudly collaborate with leading organizations and brands whose support helps make this event possible. Explore our official partners and sponsors driving innovation and impact.
Questions? We have Answers
What is YEYS 2026 and how does the fully funded youth event work?
YEYS 2026 is a fully funded youth participation event hosted by the EESC in Brussels, where selected young people join workshops, debates, and policy discussions shaping Europe’s future.
How can I apply for the fully funded youth event in Belgium?
You can apply by completing the official YEYS 2026 application form before the deadline. Selected candidates will receive full travel and accommodation support.
Who is eligible for YEYS 2026?
Eligibility includes being 16–25 years old, living in an EU Member State, EU candidate country, or the UK, and having the motivation to join youth policy discussions.
Does YEYS 2026 cover travel and accommodation costs?
Yes. The EESC covers return travel (flight/train/bus) and hotel accommodation. Local travel in your own city or inside Brussels is not covered.
Do I need a visa to attend the event in Belgium?
Participants from visa-required countries must apply for a Schengen visa. Upon selection, the EESC provides documents to support your visa application.
Is YEYS 2026 open to students outside the EU?
Yes. Applicants from eligible EU candidate countries and the United Kingdom can join the event.
What is included in the YEYS 2026 fully funded package?
The package includes return travel, accommodation, event access, workshops, meals during the event, and participation certificates.
The Global Youth Conference was a life-changing experience! I connected with passionate young leaders from around the world and left inspired to make a real impact in my community.