Against disinformation and in favor of quality journalism: the project starts Youth Facing Disinformation – Why Journalists Matter, a Council of Europe initiative that supports the action and active participation of young people. The initiative aims to transform ideas into action and individual projects into a shared European effort to strengthen the integrity of information, the freedom of expression and safety of journalists, and democratic resilience.
Organised within the framework of the Council of Europe's Journalists Matter Campaign, in collaboration with the Youth Department's Youth Revitalising Democracy project, a 'Collective information exchange' event – November 9-10, 2026 in Strasbourg – Involving young participants, journalists, media creators, policymakers, and experts. A high-level conference and thematic workshops on disinformation, media literacy, journalist safety, and youth engagement. The event will also provide a platform for grant recipients to present their projects, interact with colleagues and experts, and explore opportunities for visibility and partnerships. Young people today navigate an information space shaped by algorithms, platforms, and growing disinformation. At the same time, quality journalism, whose essential role in verifying facts and ensuring access to reliable information is increasingly at risk if it faces threats and intimidation: where there is disinformation, there is no democracy.
There are two separate options available:
- A grant (which includes participation in the event, if selected) is available. Young journalists, media creators, youth organizations, and other applicants are invited to submit proposals for youth-led projects that address the project's key themes. They will be evaluated based on relevance, quality, feasibility, impact, commitment, and budget. Applications close on July 1, 2026.
- Attend the November event at the Strasbourg European Youth Centre & Palais de l'Europ: approximately 30 young participants from Council of Europe member states will be able to apply to participate, taking part in the conference and interactive workshops in Strasbourg. The deadline is September 1, 2026.
Grant recipients will automatically be eligible to participate in the Strasbourg event. The event combines dialogue, practical exercises, and exchanges with leading professionals. Click here to learn more