Are you a municipal youth officer or local representative looking to transform how your city engages with young people? From November 2-7, 2026, Portugal will host Municipalities4Democracy, an intensive training course designed to help local authorities build stronger, more inclusive local democracies by putting youth voice at the center of municipal decision-making.
When young people are informed, empowered, and trusted, they become powerful catalysts for community growth. This training course is your opportunity to turn that belief into actionable policy.
📅 Key Dates & Quick Links
Don't miss your chance to secure a spot for this fully funded training opportunity:
- Application Deadline: September 2, 2026 (24:00 UTC)
- Selection Date: September 14, 2026
- Training Dates: November 2–7, 2026
- Location: Portugal (Venue to be confirmed)
- 🔗 Where to Apply: Submit your application here via SALTO-YOUTH
🎯 What You Will Gain
This interactive, non-formal learning experience is designed to help your municipality shift from simply consulting youth to actively co-creating with them. By participating, you will:
- Master the "Democracy Reloading" Tools: Gain hands-on understanding of these specialized tools and learn how to integrate them directly into your local context.
- Exchange Best Practices: Share experiences, successes, and challenges with municipal peers from across Europe.
- Map Out Next Steps: Identify concrete ideas and strategies to elevate youth participation in your specific municipality.
- Unlock EU Funding: Discover how to leverage Erasmus+ Youth and European Solidarity Corps (ESC) programs to fund and sustain your local youth initiatives.
👥 Who Should Apply?
This training is tailor-made for those who hold the keys to local structural change:
- Primary Focus: Municipal youth policy officers and local political representatives focusing on youth policy and civic engagement.
- Secondary Focus: Youth workers who coordinate or support youth councils and municipal participation structures.
📢 Requirements & Costs: Participants must be able to work comfortably in English. Priority is given to applicants from Democracy Reloading Partnership countries. Accommodation and food costs are fully covered by the hosting Portuguese National Agency.
🛠️ Methodology: Learning by Doing
Forget boring lectures. The methodology of this course is rooted in non-formal, experiential learning. While expert insights will be shared, the core of the week relies on interactive, participatory sessions where your voice and experience matter as much as the curriculum.
Ready to level up your municipality's good governance and breathe new life into your local democracy? Click below to apply today!