Join the Eurochild Children’s Council 2026–2028 | Fully Funded Youth Advocacy Opportunity

Are you passionate about children’s rights and ready to make your voice heard across Europe? The 5th Eurochild Children’s Council (ECC) is now accepting applications for its 2026–2028 cohort. This is a unique opportunity for young people to influence decision-making, advocate for change, and collaborate with peers from across the continent.

What is the Eurochild Children’s Council (ECC)?

The Eurochild Children’s Council (ECC) is a group of 12 children from different European countries who ensure that children’s voices, perspectives, and lived experiences are central to Eurochild’s work.

ECC members:

• Serve a two-year mandate
• Are nominated by Eurochild member organisations
• Represent diverse backgrounds, genders, and regions across Europe

Who Coordinates the ECC?

The ECC is led by Eurochild’s Child Participation Team, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and meaningful experience for all members:

• Carine – Child Participation Coordinator & Safeguarding Focal Person
• Laure Pailleau – Child Participation & Policy Officer (main contact for meetings and coordination)
• Child Participation Intern – Supporting ECC activities and logistics

Members may also collaborate with other Eurochild teams such as communications and advocacy.

How Does the ECC Work?

ECC activities are structured to ensure active participation and collaboration:

• Monthly online meetings (approx. 1.5 hours)
• Annual in-person meeting (approx. 3 days, fully funded)
• Communication via Basecamp, a secure platform for discussions, document sharing, and collaboration

What Can You Expect as an ECC Member?

Joining the ECC is both impactful and exciting. Members get to:

Participate in High-Level Activities

• Speak at events in the European Parliament during World Children’s Day
• Meet Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)
• Join and help organise international conferences

Lead and Contribute

• Train adults on child participation
• Design and run workshops
• Conduct surveys to gather children’s opinions
• Create child-friendly versions of EU documents
• Interview candidates applying to work at Eurochild

Build Skills and Gain Experience

As an ECC member, you will:

• Receive training in advocacy, public speaking, communication, and EU systems
• Participate in decision-making at both organisational and European levels
• Develop skills in teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking
• Work on important topics like mental health, governance, and children’s rights

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Eurochild is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Applications are encouraged from children of all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups.

To apply, you must:

• Be aged 10–17 (born between July 2010 and July 2016)
• Speak conversational English
• Be actively involved in a Eurochild member organisation
• Be available from July 2026 to July 2028
• Commit to monthly online meetings and occasional additional tasks
• Be able to attend at least one in-person meeting per year (costs covered)
• Be open-minded and willing to collaborate with peers from different cultures
• Be motivated to speak up on issues affecting children

How to Apply for the ECC

Step 1: Talk to Your Organisation

Confirm that your organisation can support your application throughout the two-year mandate. If multiple children apply, the organisation may conduct a pre-selection.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

• Complete the application form
• Answer written questions
• Record a short video (instructions provided in the form)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Deadline: 30 April 2026

APPLY HERE

What Happens After You Apply?

• May 2026: Applications reviewed by Eurochild staff and current ECC members
• Interviews: May be conducted if needed
• Results: Announced by 31 May 2026

If selected:

• Consent forms must be completed by you, your parent/guardian, and your organisation
• You’ll be invited to a first online onboarding meeting

Join an Info Session

Interested applicants can attend an online info session to learn more and ask questions:

• Thursday, 12 March at 17:00 (CET)
• Wednesday, 18 March at 17:00 (CET)

You’ll also meet current ECC members who will share their experiences.

Have Questions?

For any inquiries during the application process:

• Email: childparticipation@eurochild.org
• Be sure to include a parent or guardian in your email

The Eurochild Children’s Council is more than just a program—it’s a platform for young changemakers to influence policies, amplify children’s voices, and shape a better future. If you’re ready to lead, learn, and make an impact, don’t miss this opportunity.

Apply now and be a voice for children across Europe.