The European Youth Capital is a title awarded by the European Youth Forum designed to empower young people, boost youth participation and strengthen European identity in our cities.
Each year, a new European city is given the chance to showcase its innovative ideas, projects and activities that aim to raise up young voices and bring a new youth perspective to all aspects of city life. Many more, by simply applying to the title, experience innovative youth-focus initiatives taking place. From public transport and infrastructure to cultural and educational programs and democratic policy-making, the European Youth Capital title invites cities across the continent to rethink how they engage with and include young people.
"If we succeed in winning this prestigious title, it means opening up new opportunities for young people and opportunities to access significant funds from EU funds," says Mayor Benjamina Karić.
2026 European Youth Capital finalists (in alphabetical order):
Izmir / Türkiye
Málaga / Spain
Sarajevo / Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tromsø / Norway
Vila do Conde / Portugal
