World Forum for Democracy

The World Forum for Democracy is an annual gathering of policy-makers, academics, activists, youth representatives and democracy innovators, in the Council of Europe headquarters in Strasbourg (France).

The Forum serves as a unique platform for political decision-makers and activists to debate solutions to key challenges for democracies worldwide. By identifying and analysing experimental initiatives and practices, the Forum highlights and encourages democracy innovations at the grassroots and their transfer on a systemic level to strengthen the foundations of democratic societies. The Forum thus contributes to the evolution of democracy towards more participatory and inclusive structures and institutions.

Organised on an annual basis, the programme of the Forum features inspirational talks by thought leaders. Breakaway sessions and creative workshops will challenge proposed new solutions and identify ideas worth spreading. Moreover, the Forum will actively foster the creation of networks and communities of practice, serving as incubators for turning ideas into action.

The Forum contributes to the implementation of the Reykjavik Principles of Democracy adopted by the Heads of State and Government of Council of Europe member states at their Fourth Summit in Reykjavik in May 2023.

The application form must be completed online before 04 August 2025, 23:59 CET.

Potential applicants are strongly advised to apply well in advance before the deadline to check that their registration is complete and to solve any possible technical problems. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Application Form

In case of technical problems with the use of the platform, please send an e-mail to youthapplications@coe.int, before 16:00 CET, on 04 August 2025.

For any further inquiries, please contact WFDYouth@coe.int , before 16:00 CET, on 04 August 2025.