What is the YEP Programme?
The Young Elected Politicians (YEPs) programme is a network of elected representatives ages 35 or under from both EU Member States and candidate countries. Fully funded by the European Committee of the Regions, it gives them the opportunity to raise their voice at the EU level and take part in the EU policy-making process.
The programme is one of the CoR’s most dynamic initiatives and as the Greens & Progressives group within the CoR, we are committed to encouraging and supporting Green and progressive YEPs to apply and make the most of it.
What Does the Programme Offer?
The YEP programme promotes and facilitates the exchange of best practices among local and regional politicians, provides networking opportunities with CoR members, political groups and peers, and helps participants understand and seize the opportunities offered by the EU for local and regional areas. YEPs are offered opportunities to speak for EU regions and municipalities in the European legislative process, and are invited to plenary sessions, meetings of the CoR’s thematic commissions, and EU Local Dialogues, as well as flagship CoR events such as the European Week of Regions and Cities, EuroPCom, and the European Summit of Regions and Cities.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to elected politicians aged 18 to 35 who hold a regional or local mandate in an EU member state. Since 2023, young leaders from all EU candidate countries have also become eligible to apply.
Candidates are selected according to internal guidelines that aim to ensure balance across each cohort and over time. This includes gender parity, as well as fair representation in terms of regional and local level, political affiliation, and nationality.
How to Apply
Applications for each annual cohort are managed directly by the European Committee of the Regions. When the call is open, you can apply through the CoR’s official YEP programme page.