Call for projects 2023-25
About the call for projects
The Council of Europe is looking for partners to bring added value to its work in the field of Schools of Political Studies. As a School of Political Studies you are a prestigious national or regional body running annual series of seminars and conferences for dynamic and enterprising young leaders on topics such as democracy, human rights, the rule of law, European integration and global affairs, assisted by national and international experts well-known in their field.
Questions - Answers
1 - Timing of the activities included in the project proposal
The timing of the different project phases is in the discretion of the applicant. Sufficient preparatory time is certainly advisable.
2 - Specific focus on the development of skills and competencies of young leaders in the field of international refugee law and migration law
3 - Selection of participants in the course of implementation of the project and their affiliation with the School of Political Studies
4 - Translations of the supporting documentation
Applications are to be submitted in English. Supporting documents in other languages should be accompanied by their translations into English; there is no requirement to provide certified translations – it is understood that the applicant is taking responsibility for the accuracy of the translation.
5 - Civil society and civil servants as target stakeholders
6 - Methods and approaches
7 - Cooperation among applicants
While every applicant is invited to submit a separate project proposal, the latter may contain elements proposed to be implemented jointly with other applicants.
8 - Word based application
Political Schools: what for?
We live in an increasingly turbulent and polarized world. Inspiring young leaders who help bridge divides and create real change are needed now more than ever. To address the constant demands of the internal and external challenges faced by European democracies today, from health crises and climate change to political and social turmoil, Europe and its societies need creative thinkers to break new ground, to find innovative solutions based on the core values of the Council of Europe: human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
The Schools of Political Studies train future generations of young political and civic leaders to contribute to political, economic, social, and cultural life in their countries. The Schools carry out annual series of activities and events on various topics.
Activities supported by the Council of Europe
- Training courses focusing on democracy, human rights and the rule of law, as well as on current national and international affairs
- Additional workshops on specific topics (e.g. political communication, art of negotiations and rhetoric, conflict prevention skills, multiculturalist public policy design)
- Research activities, policy papers and publications
- Alumni events and gatherings
- Other activities, including innovative projects, mentorships, study visits, e-learning platforms
2023 - 2025 Programme at a glance
The Schools are funded by the Council of Europe through a 3-year grant scheme to strengthen the democratic leadership potential of young political and social leaders and to develop their competences for democratic culture. A new cycle began in 2023 with:
- 16 Schools across Europe with over 100 activities of different formats
- Activities focusing on and promoting Competences for Democratic Culture
- Development of the Schools’ Alumni network
- Participation in the World Forum for Democracy of the Council of Europe
- 2 Schools in the Southern Mediterranean (Morocco and Tunisia) supported through a different funding scheme