Today marks the start of European Youth Week 2026 across Europe, an initiative running until 1 May that will bring together young people, organisations and institutions for a week dedicated to celebrating youth participation, as part of the European Commission’s commitment to incorporating young people’s voices into EU policy-making.
Around 1,000 young people will take part in the opening event in Brussels, which will begin with a video message from Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament. Glenn Micallef, Commissioner for Intergenerational Equity, Youth, Culture and Sport, will attend the opening event and take part in a session with young citizens and representatives from Member States and EU institutions.
This year’s edition focuses on solidarity and equity, highlighting social inclusion and equal opportunities for young people. All events can be explored via an interactive map on the European Youth Portal. These events provide a platform for dialogue between young people and EU decision-makers, complementing the ongoing youth policy dialogues with the Commissioners.
European Youth Week will also feature a special event to mark 30 years of volunteering in the EU, from the European Voluntary Service to today’s European Solidarity Corps.
Commissioner Micallef said: “Young people are the heart of Europe. European Youth Week is dedicated to them, to their dreams, their ideas and their creativity. It pays tribute to young people by giving them more opportunities to make their voices heard and to participate in shaping the future of Europe. For some, this may mark the start of their journey towards active citizenship. In 2026, European Youth Week will once again highlight the importance of listening to young people’s voices and ensure that solidarity and equity remain at the heart of our policies.”
More information: European Commission.
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