Renew Youth Academy - Let’s Take Action!

European Parliament, Brussels, Belgium - 29th and 30th November

2022 is the European Year of Youth (EYY), shining a light on the importance of European youth to build a better future – greener, more inclusive and digital. With plenty of opportunities for young generations to learn, share their vision, meet people and engage in activities all over Europe, the European Year of Youth is the moment to move forward with confidence and hope in a post-pandemic perspective.

In the context of the EYY, the Renew Youth Academy is designed as a follow up to the Youth Meedup which took place in July 2022, and will provide a practical focus on skills that young people can use to influence political decision-making.

What is Renew Europe?

Renew Europe is the pro-European, centrist and liberal political group in the European Parliament. We fight for your freedom and civil rights, we push for a fast and just digital and green transition, and we are committed to the creation of jobs and securing economic growth. In order to be successful we need a Youth equipped with the right skills to influence our political decision-making.

What are you signing up for?

On 29th and 30th November 2022, 50 young representatives of liberal Youth organisations are invited to the European Parliament in the capital of the EU, Brussels, to enhance their skillset and gain practical experience on how to engage, advocate and communicate with politicians, institutions and interest groups to influence EU decision-making. By working with political and communication experts on a case study, you will develop a tangible set of competencies that you can use in the real world when advancing for issues that truly matter to you.

Why should you join?

During this two-day event, you will not only meet many like-minded young Europeans, but most importantly, you will gain new knowledge and skills from experts working on EU decision-making on a daily basis. This is an excellent opportunity for you to enhance your ability to act as a Youth Leader in your community, and ultimately, have impact on political decisions. You will contribute to shape the Europe of Tomorrow!

The highlights of the event

The Youth Academy is divided into two parts - the theory and the practice. During the first day, the participants will learn about EU decision-making from the perspective of European institutions. Policy Experts from the European Parliament, the European Council and the European Commission will share with you their day-to-day reality of influencing and shaping EU policy-making.

The second day focuses on the practice. You will be divided into three groups which will be led by a representative of each of the three youth organisations and a specialist on communication, advocacy and engagement. The aim is for you to gain practical skills to support in influencing EU policy-making and agenda setting. We want to equip you with skills and tactics that can be translated into influencing policies with the voice of the youth.

What will be financially covered?

Renew Europe will cover the costs of your return journey to Brussels from your place of origin as well as your accommodation in Brussels.

Please do not book any flight or transport, as we will do this for you.  

What are the selection criteria?

We want to hear from you if you have:

• An interest in political activism and European Union politics
• Strong motivation to take part to the Youth Year
• Aged between 18 and 30
• No previous participation in RE Youth events
• Preferably have not visited the European Parliament before 

If you wish to register, contact your international officer or the representatives of the IMS!