JEF Europe and the European Youth Centre Budapest have come together to create the Federalist Leadership Academy taking place in Budapest, Hungary from Monday, 20 April to Friday, 24 April 2026.

This event will focus on empowering JEFers to develop their skills in mainstreaming federalism, building strong and resilient sections, build strong advocacy and communication plans while focussing on the topic of rule of law ten days after the parliamentary elections in Hungary. The content of the programme is aligned with EYF priorities like revitalizing pluralistic democracy, youth rights access, and promoting peaceful inclusive societies. Participants will be awarded a diploma at the end of the study session recognising the skills developed.

By the end of the study session, participants will have developed their competences in:

• Applying strategies for volunteer recruitment, retention and organisational development.
• Engaging with the Revised European Charter on the Participation of Young People in Local and Regional Life, the Reykjavik principles and recommendations on protecting youth civil society and young people.
• Identifying relevant European funding mechanisms and producing a draft funding application through hands-on grant-writing work.
• Explaining the principles of federalism and its role in democratic governance, and communicating federalist ideas to different audiences.
• Designing an advocacy strategy, including stakeholder mapping, message development and use of legislative cycles and democratic institutions.
• Assessing disinformation and nationalist rhetoric, and using tools for identifying and countering false information in digital environments.
• Demonstrating public speaking, campaigning and communication skills through simulation and group work.

Who can apply?

• Young people (18-30) who are JEF Europe members who want to develop their knowledge in advocacy, federalism and democracy.
• Able to attend fully to all sessions (20-24 April 2026). Participants need to attend at least 80% of the study session to be reimbursed their travel expenses.

Logistics and Information

• Accommodation and meals are fully covered by the European Youth Centre of Budapest during the event.
• Travel expenses will be reimbursed up to €350 per participant for cost-efficient options.
• Travelling must be done the days before, and after the training (19 and 25 April respectively)
• There is a participation fee of €60.

Please do not book any travels or pay the participation fee before the confirmation of your participation by the selection committee.

How to Apply?

Read all details and register via this form.

Deadline: Complete the form by 18 March 2026. 

Places are limited so be sure to apply soon!

We are looking forward to welcoming you in Budapest!