In recent years, the way in which people participate in public life and social debate has changed profoundly. Amidst a constant flow of information, online disinformation, polarisation and mistrust of institutions, finding spaces for genuine dialogue and active participation has become increasingly complex, especially for many young people who often feel excluded from decision-making processes or under-represented in public discourse.
At the same time, new forms of participation continue to emerge through creative expression, collaborative practices, digital activism and collective initiatives that place diverse experiences, identities and communities at the centre. It is precisely from this need to create more accessible, inclusive and participatory spaces that ACTIVATE was born: an international programme dedicated to those wishing to explore issues related to active citizenship, civic participation and media literacy through creative and multidisciplinary tools.
ACTIVATE combines political literacy, artistic practices, storytelling and digital training to explore new ways of participating in the public sphere; through online and in-person activities, young people from different European countries will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences and contribute to the construction of new civic narratives.
What does ACTIVATE offer?
Throughout the programme, participants will be able to:
- explore tools for political and media literacy, including through courses developed by UNITAR – the United Nations Institute for Training and Research;
- develop an intersectional perspective on social dynamics and forms of civic participation;
- experiment with artistic languages and storytelling practices as tools for expression and civic engagement;
- engage with young people from different European countries through opportunities for exchange and international mobility;
- contribute to the collective drafting of a European Civic Manifesto.
A flexible and free programme
Activities will begin in June 2026 and continue until October 2027.
The programme includes
- Webinars;
- Workshops;
- Creative workshops;
- Simulations;
- International study visits.
You can choose to take part in the entire programme or attend individual sessions; in either case, you will receive a certificate confirming your participation and the skills acquired.
All training activities are open to all, whilst international mobility opportunities have a limited number of places and involve a specific selection process.
Programme of activities:
The European Union and opportunities for participation
June 2026 — in-person | 1.5 hours
An in-depth look at the history, institutions and decision-making processes of the European Union, with a particular focus on opportunities for civic participation.
Digital resilience – media lab
July 2026 — online | 1.5 hours
A workshop focusing on online disinformation, cognitive biases, echo chambers, manipulation techniques and fact-checking tools.
Creative civic expression workshop
September – October 2026 — in-person
A space for artistic and creative experimentation to explore different forms of civic expression. The course will conclude with a group exhibition created by the participants.
Introduction to the United Nations with UNITAR
November 2026 — online | self-paced course
An introductory course on the United Nations system, global citizenship and links to European governance.
Civic storytelling workshop
March – April 2027 — online | 1.5 hours
A workshop on autobiographical and creative storytelling to explore the relationship between identity, citizenship and social change, developing new narratives on civic themes.
International mobility opportunities – limited places
Simulation in Berlin
May – July 2027 | Berlin
An immersive experience focused on simulating European decision-making processes alongside young people from different countries, culminating in the joint drafting and adoption of a European Civic Manifesto.
Study visit to Brussels with UNITAR
September – October 2027 | Brussels
A programme dedicated to civic diplomacy, international institutions and global citizenship, featuring discussions facilitated by UNITAR alongside the staff involved and representatives of European institutions.
What are the eligibility criteria for taking part?
- aged between 18 and 27;
- Interest in civic participation, global citizenship, media literacy, artistic and creative practices for civic engagement, intersectionality, and inclusion.
ACTIVATE invites you to imagine new forms of participation through dialogue, creativity and collaboration, creating spaces in which to exchange ideas, share experiences and actively contribute to building a more inclusive and informed society.
Sign up for the ACTIVATE training programme
ACTIVATE – Active Citizens for a Stronger Europe is a project funded by the CERV-2025-CITIZENS-CIV (Citizens' engagement and participation) programme with the aim of revitalising civic engagement among young people through creative approaches and strengthening civic skills.
Partner
- Coordinator: ASOCIACION CIFAL MALAGA , Spain
- CIEDES , Spain
- IBCM – Public International Business College Mitrovica , Kosovo
- Centro per lo Sviluppo Creativo Danilo Dolci ETS , Italy
- NEMZETI IFJUSAGI TANACS , Hungary
- Bakcso Természetjaro, Termeszetvedo, Kulturalis es Szabadidosport Egyesulet , Hungary
- CIFAL Flanders , Belgium
- YOUTH POWER GERMANY EV , Germany
- UNITAR , Switzerland