Applications are now open for a fully funded Study Session taking place from 1st to 5th September 2025 at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg, France. This unique opportunity is designed for young environmental defenders across Europe who are actively engaged in grassroots climate justice activism and are ready to deepen their knowledge, expand their networks, and contribute to meaningful change.

In recent years, young environmental activists in Europe have increasingly faced serious repression and threats, despite operating within democratically established societies. From criminalisation of protests and strategic lawsuits to police violence and targeted harassment, these forms of repression threaten not only the safety of youth activists but also the broader democratic principles they seek to uphold. This Study Session aims to address these challenges by equipping participants with tools to navigate them while fostering a stronger, united front among youth environmental defenders.

The program is rooted in a belief that young people’s involvement in environmental action is a powerful form of democratic participation. By bringing together activists from across the Council of Europe member states, the session offers a collaborative space to connect with like-minded changemakers, engage with key institutions, and gain critical knowledge on human rights-based protection mechanisms. Participants will also explore the importance of rule of law and how it can be leveraged to protect their activism efforts.

This opportunity is open to young people aged 18 to 30 who are based in Council of Europe member states and actively involved in environmental or climate justice initiatives. Ideal applicants will demonstrate a commitment to democracy and environmental rights and should be comfortable communicating in English. While all qualified applicants are welcome, preference may be given to those with direct experience facing or supporting others through repression, or those whose activism intersects with broader social justice movements.

The Study Session is fully funded, covering travel, accommodation, local transport, meals, and visa costs. A €50 enrolment fee is required; however, waivers are available for applicants facing financial hardship, especially those from marginalised backgrounds or who work voluntarily without institutional support.

Interested applicants must submit their application by 29th June 2025. Pre-selected participants will be invited to a short online meeting ahead of the session to receive more information and meet the preparatory team. An additional one-hour online preparatory session will be held two weeks before the event to ensure that participants are fully supported and ready to engage.

If you are passionate about defending the planet, committed to upholding democratic freedoms, and eager to grow as part of a pan-European network of young environmental leaders—this is your moment to step forward.

Apply now and be part of the movement shaping the future of climate justice in Europe.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity