Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT) Youth Network – Call for Applicants 2024

The European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships is excited to announce the open call for applicants to join the new cohort of the OCT Youth Network for 2024-2025. This is a unique opportunity for young people from the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) to engage with the EU-OCT Partnership, learn about the functioning of European Institutions, and network with peers from other OCTs.

Open Call for Applicants

Overview

The OCT Youth Network aims to reflect the diverse realities of the OCTs by bringing together young individuals from various backgrounds, experiences, and areas of interest. This initiative promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized groups, minorities, individuals with special needs, disabilities, or those in vulnerable situations.

Application Submission

Applications must be submitted online via the designated platform. Interested candidates should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

Age and Language Proficiency

• Applicants must be between 20 and 28 years old.
• A good command of English is required.

Selection Criteria

Candidates will be evaluated based on:

• Connection to OCTs: This can be through family links, residence, professional, educational, or civil society engagement.
• Motivation: A demonstrated willingness to join the network and actively contribute to its goals.
• Community Engagement: Experience in local community activities within the OCTs, such as volunteering, activism, or active participation.

OCTs Associated with the EU

The 13 Overseas Countries and Territories associated with the European Union are:

• Aruba
• Bonaire
• Curaçao
• French Polynesia
• French Southern and Antarctic Territories
• Greenland
• New Caledonia
• Saba
• Saint Barthélemy
• Saint Pierre and Miquelon
• Sint Eustatius
• Sint Maarten
• Wallis and Futuna

Timeline

Application Deadline

• 6 June 2024, 23:59 CEST (Brussels Time): Deadline for submitting applications.

Apply HERE

Confirmation and Selection Process

• Application Receipt: Confirmation emails will be sent within 3 working days of submission.
• First Stage: Shortlisting of candidates by mid-June 2024.
• Second Stage: Interviews with shortlisted candidates between 14-28 June 2024.
• Final Results: Notification of final selection by mid-July 2024.

Initial Meeting

• The first meeting of the OCT Youth Network is scheduled to take place online in July 2024 (exact dates to be confirmed)

Apply HERE

Conclusion

The OCT Youth Network provides an invaluable platform for young people from the OCTs to engage with important issues, develop their leadership skills, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. This initiative supports a diverse and inclusive network, ensuring that voices from all backgrounds are heard and valued.

For further information and to apply, please visit the official application platform.