Are you an elected local or regional leader with a passion for driving positive change in your community? Do you want to connect with like-minded peers across Europe, strengthen your voice in the European Union, and play a direct role in shaping European policy?
The Young Elected Politicians (YEP) Programme 2025 is your gateway to the heart of EU decision-making. Run by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), this unique initiative brings together dynamic young leaders from across the EU and candidate countries, offering unparalleled opportunities for learning, networking, and leadership development.
About Young Elected Politicians (YEP) Programme
The Young Elected Politicians Programme (YEPs) is a network of politicians who are no older than 35 and hold a mandate at regional or local level in the European Union. The purpose of the network is to:
- exchange best practice among local and regional politicians;
- network with CoR members, Political Groups and fellow young politicians from the EU and the EU Candidate Countries in person and online;
- understand and seize opportunities offered by the EU for local and regional areas;
- speak for EU regions and municipalities in the European legislative process
- gain visibility in European circles
- strengthen the outreach of young representatives through communication support and tailored trainings.
Who Can Apply
You are eligible to apply if you:
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have been elected by direct universal suffrage at the local or regional level in an EU Member State or an EU Candidate Country
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are born after 1 January 1990
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do not hold a mandate as a CoR a member or alternate
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have a good level of English
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submit the application form
Candidates will be selected based on the quality of their application form and with an eye to ensuring gender parity and balance in terms of regional and local representation, political affiliation and nationality.
Why Join the YEP Network
Becoming a YEP means getting direct insight and first-hand experience at the highest political fora of the EU. Some of the opportunities YEPs are presented with include:
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Network with fellow YEPs and elected leaders from across Europe
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Exchange best practices on key policy issues via exclusive digital platforms
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Gain insights into EU legislation, funding opportunities, and political processes
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Speak on behalf of EU regions and municipalities in the European legislative process
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Raise your profile and that of your community at the European level
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Learn about and directly contribute to EU policy-making
What Does the Programme Include
The YEP programme is structured around the institutional role and activities of the CoR, including:
For a full overview of the benefits and objectives of the YEP programme, please refer to the press kit below.
When and Where
The 2025 YEP Programme runs from spring 2025 to spring 2026, with key events planned throughout the year.
Activities take place in various formats:
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Online (e.g., virtual consultations and webinars)
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Hybrid (e.g., policy conferences)
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In-person in Brussels and other EU locations (e.g., CoR sessions and commission meetings)
Participants will receive a schedule of milestone events and are notified of new opportunities as they arise.
Support for Participation
To ensure inclusive access, the CoR often provides:
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Reimbursement of travel costs
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A flat-rate daily allowance to cover accommodation and other related expenses during in-person events
How to Apply
Applications are now open until 1 May 2025
Interested? Take your first step toward becoming a leading voice in European democracy:
Apply now
Download: YEP Programme Press Kit
Contact: [email protected]
For more info, please visit the website of the European Union.
Explore other programmes and funding options for youth in leadership on the Opportunities For Youth platform.