European Youth Capital
The European Youth Capital is a title that turns one city each year into the go-to place for young people’s energy, creativity and action. For 12 months, the chosen city becomes a living stage for bold ideas and innovative projects designed and led hand-in-hand with young people. It’s all about showcasing how meaningful youth participation can bring lasting change and create a more inclusive Europe.
Call for an external evaluator
We are looking for an external evaluator (service provider) that will provide their assessment on the applications for the European Youth Capital 2029 title and support the Jury in their deliberations. Do you have strong motivation to contribute to the objectives of the European Youth Capital project, knowledge of youth policies and a keen interest in municipal and urban policies? Then don't miss the chance to apply 🔥
📅 Apply by 30 January 2026, 23:59 CET. Check below for more on submitting your application 👇
Applications for the European Youth Capital 2029 are now open
Does your city have what it takes to become the next European Youth Capital? 💪 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.
How does it work?
Cities across Europe can apply to become the next European Youth Capital through a process run by us once a year. Applications should be developed together with local youth organisations, making sure that young people are at the centre of the city’s programme. After three rounds of feedback and assessment by an independent jury, the winning city is announced. From there, it has two years to develop its plans before they get to show all of Europe their unique take on this title.
This year’s European Youth Capital
In 2025, Lviv became the first Ukrainian city to hold the European Youth Capital title. The year began with a three-day celebration, including a grand opening at the Lviv Opera House, attended by both local participants and international guests. Over the year, Lviv has been implementing a carefully planned youth strategy focusing on developing youth infrastructure, such as youth centres, international exchanges, and hosting a variety of local events.
What's coming next?
Looking ahead to 2026, the title went to Tromsø, Norway’s “youngest city”, where nearly half of the population is under 35 years old. So, what should you expect? Tromsø’s team has committed to make the city and the Arctic a better place for young people to live, work and create, with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity. Indigenous identity and traditions are also at the core of their application, promising a year that highlights both innovation and heritage.
Podgorica is the European Youth Capital 2028 🔥
It’s one of Europe’s youngest capitals - gaining capital status after the country's independence in 2006. It’s in a country negotiating EU accession, a Western Balkan frontrunner, and it's a city recognised by a strikingly modern Millennium Bridge. Montenegro’s vibrant capital Podgorica has officially been awarded the title of European Youth Capital 2028 🇲🇪
Curious about previous years?
Since 2009, over 10.000 events have been held and cities have secured tens of millions in additional funding to make their programme a reality. Thousands of volunteers, over 12.000, have helped bring these projects to life, proving the power of youth participation.
- 2009 - Rotterdam, Netherlands
- 2010 - Turin, Italy
- 2011 - Antwerp, Belgium
- 2012 - Braga, Portugal
- 2013 - Maribor, Slovenia
- 2014 - Thessaloniki, Greece
- 2015 - Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- 2016 - Ganja, Azerbaijan
- 2017 - Varna, Bulgaria
- 2018 - Cascais, Portugal
Previous applications
Are you curious to see how the winning applications look like? Here you can find the final applications from the latest European Youth Capitals:
- 2028 - Podgorica, Montenegro
- 2027 - Parma, Italy
- 2026 - Tromsø, Norway
- 2025 - Lviv, Ukraine
Key Documents and Resources
Open Research studies and publications
Related news
A year of courage: Thank you Lviv!
As the war remains ever present - nearly four years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Lviv’s year as European Youth Capital 2025 is about to come to an end. This has not been a regular European Youth Capital year. Read our article to find out more.
Applications for the European Youth Capital 2029 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. Apply now to become the next European Youth Capital.
European Youth Capital 2028: We have a winner!
It’s one of Europe’s youngest capitals - only gaining capital status in 2006. It’s in a country negotiating EU accession, a Western Balkan frontrunner, and a city recognised by a strikingly modern Millennium Bridge. Montenegro’s vibrant capital Podgorica has officially been awarded the title of European Youth Capital 2028.