Call for applications: Progressives Speak Up School in Athens  

The call to apply to the Progressives Speak Up School #6, taking place in Athens, Greece, from Wednesday 9 to Friday 11 September 2026 is now open! 

 

Are you a young progressive politician, activist, or aspiring candidate eager to strengthen your campaigning and communication skills ahead of upcoming elections? 

The PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions invites young progressive leaders from across Europe to apply for the sixth edition of the Progressives Speak Up School. 

This year's edition will focus on preparing young leaders for electoral campaigns, strengthening public speaking skills, developing impactful political messages, and learning from experienced local and European politicians. 

Please carefully complete all the sections; remember that: 

 

  • Participants must be elected at the local or regional level 

  • The age limit for participants is 40 years 

  • Participants are expected to attend the full programme from Thursday 10 September at 9h30 until Friday 11 September 13h00. To celebrate the start of the school, we will be having an informal drink on Wednesday 9 September, at 1h:30. We would be delighted if you could join us.

  • a good level of English is required 

 

Candidates can apply by Wednesday 17 June 2026 (23:59 CET). Unfortunately, only a limited number of people can attend this event, and the PES Group Secretariat will need to carry out a selection process, taking into account gender, geographical balance and motivation. Travel and accommodation expenses will be reimbursed. You will be informed about the result of this selection by the end of June. 
 
 

What are your expectations for the School?
Are you comfortable using CapCut for creating and editing short videos? We might plan an interactive session with a dedicated training on CapCut