Applications for the European Youth Capital 2027 are now open
Does your city have what it takes to become the next European Youth Capital? 💪 Each year, a European city is given the opportunity to showcase innovative ideas and projects done by, and for young people, improving youth participation across the continent. The European Youth Capital title is bringing communities together since 2009, creating liveable city ecosystems for young people. Apply now to become the next European Youth Capital.

why should your municipality apply?
Young people must have an equal opportunity to shape the social, economic and political life in their communities. They bring fresh ideas, boost local democracy, and their contributions benefit all of the city’s residents. The European Youth Capital project supports both young people and the municipality to open up these possibilities and lead the way for other European cities to follow.
During the year a city is awarded the European Youth Capital title, the winning municipality engages with young people and celebrates their contributions to urban life. The title allows the city to showcase its commitments and engage residents in inclusive co-creation. It leads to stronger support for young people and their rights and improves the connection with other European cities that prioritise their young residents as well.
The application process is also an opportunity for decision-makers and youth organisations to work together, discuss young people's priorities, and receive feedback from an expert group on their proposals.
want to know more?
Check out what it means to hold the title and the positive impact it can bring to your city "European Youth Capital: ten years of boosting vibrant youthful cities".
How does it look like to be the European Youth Capital?
📷 Watch the videos of former European Youth Capitals: Klaipeda, Tirana and Lublin to find out more.
how to participate?
Cities must submit an application together with a local youth organisation, outlining their past performance in the youth field, their motivation, an initial plan for the year, and their willingness to secure the long-lasting legacy of the proposed actions.
Up to five short-listed candidates will be selected by an expert jury that will provide feedback and recommendations on how they can improve their applications, before a final winner is chosen and announced at the European Youth Capital Award Ceremony in November 2023.
For more information, and submitting the application, please download the full application package:
⏰ Deadline for applications:
13 February 2024 (23:59 CET)
📩 Questions?
If you have any questions about the application and selection procedure, please contact eyc@youthforum.org.
Good luck 🤞
Related articles & publications

Release Enes Hocaoğulları! Youth activism and freedom of expression should never be punished
The European Youth Forum and the National Youth Council of Türkiye (GoFor) unequivocally condemn the arrest of Enes Hocaoğulları, LGBTI+ activist and Youth Delegate to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe.

Fighting for Our Voice: The SDGs and Youth Rights in an Era of Shrinking Civic Space and Multilateral Crisis
In a time of economic, ecological, and democratic crisis, young people are being systematically sidelined, even as governments recommit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Building Bridges: How young Ukrainians are redefining European connection
Nowadays, bridges between countries are more than just road structures. They often serve as a metaphor for connection, exchange and understanding. And it's precisely these kinds of bridges that Lviv, the European Youth Capital 2025, is actively building today.