Climate action requires a united effort across European countries to build democratic solutions for a sustainable tomorrow. We call on you to join us in making a real impact on our future!

The Climate Action Academy is a five-day, in-person training organised by JEF Europe for young people who want to better understand how democracy, federalism and political action can be used to address the climate crisis in Europe.

From 11–15 March 2026, participants will meet in Rotterdam (Netherlands) to work on the political side of climate action. The programme combines input sessions, workshops and group work focused on European and international climate governance, youth participation, democratic tools and concrete advocacy strategies.

During the training, participants will:

• Learn how climate policy is shaped at local, national and European level

• Explore the role of democracy and multi-level governance in climate action

• Develop practical skills for advocacy, campaigning and political engagement

• Work together on policy ideas, manifestos and campaign concepts

• Engage with civil society actors and local decision-makers

This academy marks the starting point of JEF Europe’s ClimDM workplan on democracy and climate action, co-funded by the European Youth Foundation.

Who can apply
Participants must be 18–35 years old and interested in climate action, democracy and political advocacy.

We strongly encourage applications from participants with different backgrounds and starting points. This includes long-time JEFers as well as newcomers, people from urban and rural areas, and participants at different stages of education or working life. Prior experience in advocacy or policy work is not required.

We aim to make this event accessible and inclusive. Participants with accessibility needs are encouraged to apply, and we are happy to discuss individual requirements in advance. We will provide accessibility information and work with participants to accommodate needs wherever possible.

Practical information
JEF Europe covers accommodation, meals, programme costs and travel expenses up to 200 EUR. We encourage participants to choose green means of transport whenever possible.

How to apply
Apply via the Google Form by 8 February 2026. We will let applicants know about the participant selection process by 12 February 2026.

We are happy to answer any questions via email:
jan-gert.zevenbergen@jef.eu
teresa.carvalho@jef.eu