Youth Participation in the Gender Equality Forum 2026 (Europe)

The Gender Equality Forum 2026 invites young people aged 18–30 from across the European Union to participate in discussions on the future of gender equality. Organised by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), the Forum offers opportunities to engage in policy dialogue, workshops, debates, and interactive activities with leaders from EU institutions, civil society, and other sectors.

What is the Gender Equality Forum 2026?

The Gender Equality Forum 2026 is a European event that brings together young people, policymakers, employers, civil society organisations, artists, and gender equality experts to discuss key challenges and opportunities related to gender equality across Europe.

The Forum provides a platform for participants to exchange ideas, contribute to policy discussions, and help shape future approaches to creating more inclusive, equitable, and resilient societies.

The event encourages meaningful youth participation by giving selected participants opportunities to actively engage in discussions, workshops, and public dialogue.

Program Overview

Programme Name: Gender Equality Forum 2026
Organiser: European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE)
Programme Type: Youth participation and policy dialogue forum
Event Format: In-person and online (hybrid)
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Event Date: 17 November 2026
Language: English
Eligible Applicants: Young people aged 18–30 living in European Union Member States

Forum Objectives

The Gender Equality Forum aims to:

Promote gender equality across Europe.
Encourage youth participation in policy discussions.
Strengthen dialogue between young people and decision-makers.
Explore solutions to gender gaps in society and the economy.
Support inclusive workplaces.
Promote equal opportunities.
Foster innovation through gender equality.
Encourage collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

The Forum highlights how gender equality contributes to sustainable economic and social development.

Focus Areas

Discussions during the Forum will cover topics including:

Gender equality
Care for resilient economies
Skills for innovation
Gender gaps in employment
Workplace equality
Equal opportunities
Economic impact of gender gaps
Gender equality as an economic accelerator
Youth participation
Public policy
Inclusive workplaces
Social progress
Economic development

Participants will explore how these issues affect individuals, organisations, and European societies.

Forum Activities

The programme includes a variety of interactive sessions designed to encourage collaboration and learning.

Activities include:

Panel discussions
Policy debates
Interactive workshops
Inspirational talks
Question-and-answer sessions
Networking opportunities
Collaborative activities

Participants will have opportunities to engage directly with experts and decision-makers.

Accessibility

The Forum is designed to encourage inclusive participation.

Accessibility features include:

Hybrid participation (in-person and online)
English as the working language
International Sign Language interpretation for selected sessions
Accessible participation for both on-site and online attendees

These measures help ensure broader participation from diverse communities across Europe.

Opportunities for Selected Youth Participants

Selected participants will play an active role throughout the Forum.

Opportunities include:

Appearing in the Forum’s opening video.
Being featured on the EIGE website.
Sharing perspectives during question-and-answer sessions.
Participating in interactive workshops.
Joining the closing discussion with the EIGE Director.
Contributing to Forum coverage through EIGE’s social media activities.

Participants are encouraged to bring their ideas and experiences to discussions on gender equality.

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

Be 18 to 30 years old at the time of application.
Live in one of the 27 European Union Member States.
Non-EU nationals residing in an EU Member State are also eligible.
Have early-stage work experience through employment, a traineeship, internship, or similar opportunity.
Demonstrate commitment to gender equality.
Be comfortable communicating in English.
Be available to attend the Forum in person in Brussels on 17 November 2026.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

The organisers encourage applications from young people of all backgrounds.

Applications are welcomed regardless of:

Gender
Gender identity
Sexual orientation
Racial origin
Ethnic origin
Social origin
Colour
Disability
Religion
Belief

The aim is to ensure the Forum reflects the diversity of communities across Europe.

What Makes a Strong Application?

Competitive applications generally demonstrate:

A genuine commitment to gender equality.
Interest in public policy and social issues.
Willingness to participate actively in discussions.
Strong communication skills in English.
Relevant early-stage professional experience.
Interest in promoting inclusive societies.
Motivation to contribute to European dialogue.

Applicants should explain how they can contribute meaningfully to Forum discussions.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to prepare a strong application.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Ensure you meet the age, residency, work experience, and language requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Provide all required personal information and explain:

Your interest in gender equality.
Relevant experience.
Motivation for participating.
How you hope to contribute to the Forum.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Complete the official application before the closing deadline.

Step 4: Await Selection

Successful applicants will receive information about participation in the Forum and related activities.

Step 5: Participate in the Forum

Attend the Forum in Brussels on 17 November 2026 and actively engage in discussions, workshops, and networking activities.

Why This Forum Matters

Gender equality remains an important priority across Europe.

The Forum helps:

Amplify young voices.
Strengthen evidence-based policy discussions.
Encourage inclusive decision-making.
Promote equal opportunities.
Support more resilient economies.
Foster collaboration between institutions and citizens.
Build future leaders committed to equality and inclusion.

By involving young people directly, the Forum contributes to policies that better reflect the experiences and aspirations of Europe’s diverse communities.

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid the following mistakes:

Providing vague or generic motivation statements.
Failing to demonstrate an interest in gender equality.
Ignoring the eligibility requirements.
Underestimating the importance of English communication skills.
Submitting incomplete applications.
Not highlighting relevant work or internship experience.
Forgetting to confirm availability for the in-person event.

A thoughtful and well-prepared application can improve the chances of selection.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

To strengthen your application:

Clearly explain why gender equality matters to you.
Highlight any volunteer, academic, or professional experience related to equality or inclusion.
Demonstrate enthusiasm for policy dialogue.
Provide specific examples of your engagement.
Show your willingness to collaborate with diverse participants.
Write clearly and confidently in English.
Emphasise how you will contribute to Forum discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for the Gender Equality Forum 2026?

Young people aged 18 to 30 who live in one of the 27 European Union Member States, including eligible non-EU nationals residing in the EU, may apply.

Where will the Forum take place?

The Forum will take place in Brussels, Belgium, on 17 November 2026, with additional opportunities for online participation.

What language will the Forum use?

The working language is English, and selected sessions will include International Sign Language interpretation.

What topics will be discussed?

The Forum covers gender equality, care economies, workplace inclusion, innovation, youth participation, economic development, policy dialogue, and strategies for reducing gender gaps.

What activities will participants take part in?

Participants will engage in debates, workshops, inspirational talks, networking activities, question-and-answer sessions, and discussions with representatives from European institutions and civil society.

Is previous professional experience required?

Yes. Applicants should have gained early-stage work experience through employment, internships, traineeships, or similar opportunities.

What makes a strong application?

Successful applicants demonstrate commitment to gender equality, strong communication skills, relevant experience, enthusiasm for collaboration, and a clear motivation to contribute to discussions shaping the future of equality in Europe.

Conclusion

The Gender Equality Forum 2026 offers a unique opportunity for young people across the European Union to contribute to high-level discussions on gender equality, inclusive workplaces, and Europe’s future. Through interactive workshops, policy dialogue, networking opportunities, and direct engagement with European institutions, participants can help shape meaningful conversations while building valuable connections and leadership experience. Young people passionate about equality, inclusion, and social progress are encouraged to apply.