Council of Europe Training Course 2026 in France (Fully Funded)

This is a fully funded training course organized by the Council of Europe Youth Department, taking place at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg, France. The main training runs from 28 September to 3 October 2026, with the full program period from 27 September to 4 October 2026, including arrival and departure days. The course focuses on youth advocacy for democracy and human rights, teaching young people how to participate in decision-making and policy shaping. Up to 30 participants will be selected.

This is a fully funded opportunity. The Council of Europe will cover accommodation and meals at the European Youth Centre Strasbourg. Travel expenses and visa fees will also be reimbursed according to the Council of Europe's rules.

To be eligible, candidates should: - Be between 18 and 30 years old, though exceptions may be made if justified. - Represent a youth council, youth organization, youth network, or another youth civil society group. - Hold a leadership position within their organization and be committed to continuing advocacy work after the training. - Be committed to human rights, democracy, the rule of law, and youth participation. - Be available to attend the entire training course and participate in follow-up activities. - Be able to work independently in English. - Candidates should ideally live in a country that is part of the European Cultural Convention, although exceptions may be made if justified. Ethiopian students may apply, but should be aware of this preference and be prepared to justify their application if they do not meet this specific residency criterion.

Applicants need to submit an online application form and a support letter from their sending organization.

1. Complete the online application form through the official Council of Europe application link. 2. Fill in all the required information carefully. 3. Ask your sending organization to provide a support letter for your application. 4. Send the support letter by email to [email protected]. 5. Use “TC ADVOCACY YOUR NAME SUPPORT LETTER” as the email subject. 6. Ensure both the online application and the support letter are submitted before the deadline.

Participants will gain useful skills in human rights and youth advocacy, learn how to engage with decision-makers, and meet Council of Europe experts. There will also be opportunities to engage with members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and attend its sessions, as well as network with other young people from various youth organizations and civil society groups.