Young progressive leaders across Europe now have the opportunity to bring their local and regional perspectives directly into the European arena. The European Committee of the Regions has officially opened applications for its Young Elected Politicians (YEP) Programme 2026, an initiative designed to empower the next generation of political leaders.
The programme supports young politicians who are shaping their communities at the local and regional level and want to engage more closely with European policymaking. Through the YEP programme, participants gain first-hand experience of how European institutions work while building a strong network of peers and senior political figures from across the continent.
Who can apply?
The programme is open to young politicians who meet the following criteria:
Under 35 years old
Currently elected at local or regional level
Based in an EU Member State or an EU candidate country
- Have a good level of English
What the programme offers
Selected participants will benefit from a unique set of opportunities aimed at strengthening their political leadership and European engagement.
Participants may have the opportunity to take part in activities in Brussels and at major European events, depending on the programme and timing of the selection process. In some cases, travel and accommodation may be covered by the European Committee of the Regions. Throughout the programme, young leaders will be invited to engage in debates, plenary sessions and policy discussions, offering direct insight into EU decision-making.
The programme also provides a strong networking dimension, allowing participants to connect with fellow young politicians from across Europe and exchange experiences on local governance challenges. They will also have the opportunity to engage with established policymakers, including Members of the European Parliament.
In addition, the programme includes specialised training sessions tailored to young elected leaders, helping participants develop skills relevant to political leadership, policymaking, and communication.
For progressive participants, the experience can also open doors to further political engagement across Europe, including invitations to events and initiatives designed to strengthen cooperation among progressive leaders.
Bringing local voices to the European level
Local and regional leaders play a crucial role in implementing European policies and representing citizens’ concerns on the ground. The Young Elected Politicians Programme aims to ensure that their perspectives are heard within European discussions while supporting a new generation of leaders committed to shaping Europe’s future.
Apply now
Applications for the 2026 edition are open until Friday 17 April 2026. Submit the official submission form here.
