In a context of raising threats to the rule of law and democratic backsliding, where, at the same time, environmental degradation demands urgent action respectful of human rights, the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe (NSC) and the joint European Union/Council of Europe South Programme V are calling upon youth organisations to nominate candidates to participate in the Rule of Law Youth Network (RoLYN). RoLYN aims to empower young activists to defend human rights, democracy, and the rule of law as fundamental principles.
Following the Reykjavik Summit's declaration, the newly formed RoLYN is a direct outcome of the Lisbon Forum “Human Rights, Environment and Economic Crimes: Youth at the forefront”, and intends to follow up on its recommendation to empower young people and enable interregional collaboration between them to address current challenges to the rule of law.
RoLYN’s objectives include raising awareness, building capacities, and fostering youth-led anti-corruption initiatives based on Council of Europe and other international standards. The 2024-2025 edition will particularly concentrate on the intersection of corruption and environmental damage. Up to 20 youth representatives from NSC member States and partner countries are sought for this two-year programme.
Some of the planned activities include:
March 2024: anti-corruption standards training in Tunisia.
June 2024: Activity during the African University on Youth and Development in Cabo Verde.
September 2024: Activity during the University on Youth and Development in Spain.
To be eligible, candidates must comply with the criteria specified in the call, possess relevant experience in governance and/or environmental initiatives, and be between 18 to 30 years old.
Proficiency in English and/or Arabic is required. Interested organisations are invited to submit applications by 2 January 2024, to NSC.youthcooperation@coe.int, including organisation details, candidate's curriculum vitae, his/ her motivation letter, and a letter of support from the organisation.
The North South Centre of the Council of Europe welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds and ensures a fair selection process based on gender and geographical balance. For inquiries, contact NSC.youthcooperation@coe.int before 18 December 2023.
For further information and to acknowledge all the eligibility criterias, please consult the call ( Arabic I English I French )
This project benefits from voluntary contributions of member states of the North-South Centre and financial support from the South Programme V, a joint initiative between the European Union and the Council of Europe, co-financed by both organisations and implemented by the Council of Europe.