The countdown is on for the third edition of the Gender Equality Forum! 

Join us in Brussels on 17 November 2026 to include youth perspectives into the conversations on how gender equality can shape the EU competitiveness agenda. We want your voices to be heard! 

To ensure a strong youth focus for the Forum 2026, the European Institute for Gender Equality is inviting 35 youth participants (18 to 30 years old) to attend the Forum in person. For up to 30 people, EIGE will offer reimbursement of travel, accommodation and daily allowance. 

If you are passionate about advancing gender equality and committed to making the EU a fairer place, then this is your platform to speak up! 

Apply by 7 July 2026 (EOB)

What is the Gender Equality Forum? 

The Gender Equality Forum is a dynamic event designed to bring people together to discuss the most pressing gender equality issues in the EU. The Forum takes place at a watershed moment, as key EU priorities such as care and ongoing negotiations on the multiannual EU budget intersect with a renewed focus on competitiveness. We are looking for young voices to help sustain momentum and ensure that gender equality remains a cornerstone of the EU’s economic and social progress. 

We want to give you, the youth of Europe, the opportunity to have a say in this.  

Discussions at the Forum will be based around three thematic strands: 

  • Care at the core for resilient economies  

  • Skills for innovation: addressing gender gaps in opportunities and workplaces  

  • The cost of gender gaps – and how to unlock gender equality as an economic accelerator 

The Forum will feature a rich programme of debates, workshops, inspirational talks, and other activities. We invite you to join a wide range of participants: from representatives of EU institutions and civil society organisations to employers and artists.  

The event will be in English. It will take place in person and online, with International Sign Language interpretation for selected sessions on-site and online. 

What’s in it for you? 

If you are passionate about working together towards a bigger purpose and specifically interested in promoting gender equality in your workspace and beyond, this is the place to be. 

You will be able to share your unique ideas with high-level representatives, gender equality experts, and peers. Do not miss the chance to meet progressive employers shaping a more inclusive and prosperous Europe. 

Making a difference starts by debating ideas, exchanging experiences and, different perspectives. The Forum will give you the opportunity to do that.  

As a youth participant, you will not just attend the Forum, you will help shape it. This could mean:  

  • Featuring in the Forum opening video and on EIGE’s website, 

  • Bringing your unique perspective and insights during Q&A sessions,  

  • Joining interactive thematic workshops and contributing to equitable solutions to competitiveness challenges, 

  • Taking part in the closing conversation with EIGE’s Director,  

  • Capturing the event through EIGE’s social media. 

Who can apply?        

This call is designed for young people with some early-stage work experience. 

If you are: 

  • aged between 18 and 30 years at the time of application, 

  • living in one of the 27 EU Member States (non-EU nationals residing in the EU may also apply), 

  • having acquired work experience: employment, traineeship/internship or similar, 

  • committed to gender equality as a core principle of the European Union, 

  • motivated to participate actively in the Forum sessions and related activities, 

  • able to express yourself themselves comfortably in English, and 

  • available to attend the Forum in-person in Brussels on 17 November 2026. 

Then this is your opportunity to share your perspective, questions, and commitment, and be part of the conversation. 

Gender equality is a shared responsibility, and we want our Forum to reflect the diversity of Europe. Hence, we encourage applications from interested candidates who fit these selection criteria, irrespective of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, disability, religion or belief.  

To express your interest in joining us at the Gender Equality Forum 2026, please submit the online application form by 7 July 2026 (EOB). 

More information about the selection process, criteria and timeline

For any further questions, please contact the Forum team at genderequalityforum2026@eige.europa.eu  

About us  

The European Institute for Gender Equality is the European Union’s knowledge centre on gender equality.  

As the EU agency for gender equality, EIGE develops data-driven tools and research to help policymakers design and implement inclusive, transformative measures that promote gender equality across all areas of life.