What is the summit about?
The UK–Germany Youth Summit is a lighthouse project under the landmark UK–Germany Kensington Treaty, which strengthens cooperation between the UK and Germany, including in the areas of education, youth exchange, and democratic engagement.
The Summit brings together young people from the UK and Germany and offers a space to explore intercultural dialogue and deepen your understanding of different perspectives.
Through creative workshops and meaningful conversations with peers, you will engage with topics such as disinformation, civic engagement, diversity and democracy. You will be encouraged to reflect on what democracy means in your everyday life, exchange ideas, and imagine the inclusive and resilient society you want to live in.
By taking part, you will broaden your horizons, connect across borders with like-minded people, and discover ways to bring new insights back to your own community.
Please note: This application process is for young people based in the UK.
Applicants living in Germany can find information and apply via IJAB’s website.
Who is involved?
- 70 young people from Germany and the UK, aged 18–25
When is it?
- Main event: Thursday, 19 – Sunday, 22 March 2026
- Online preparatory seminar: 2–3 hours in early March 2026
Where will the summit take place?
Berlin (venue to be confirmed)
What costs will be covered?
All costs for travel, accommodation and meals will be covered. Participants will not be required to contribute financially to the summit.
Please note: pocket money is not included.
Why take part?
- Connect with peers from the UK and Germany and build meaningful international friendships
- Develop key skills that strengthen your critical thinking and resilience
- Explore how democracy shapes your daily life and how you can contribute to sustaining it
- Gain confidence through speaking up, collaborating and sharing ideas
- Bring new perspectives back to your school, workplace or community
- Be supported by an experienced intercultural team throughout the fully funded programme
- Enjoy an enriching and memorable experience in Berlin!
Who can apply?
To be eligible for the Youth Summit, you should:
- be between 18 and 25 years old at the time of the event
- should currently live in the UK and have done so for the past 2 years
- should have done at least two years of your formal education (which could be secondary, further or higher education) in the UK
- should have a good understanding of English, as the entire programme is in English
- be able to participate fully in the summit in Berlin from 19 to 22 March 2026 (no part-time participation)
- be available for a 2–3 hour online preparatory seminar in early March
You should also:
- be interested in topics such as democracy, civic engagement, disinformation and resilience
- be open and respectful towards different cultures, opinions and experiences
How to apply
Complete the online application form by 25 January 2026.
If selected, you will receive confirmation of your place by early February 2026. You will then receive detailed information about the programme, preparatory activities and travel arrangements.
If you have any questions, please contact us at Youth.Summit@britishcouncil.org.
Who is organising the summit?
The UK–Germany Youth Summit is a joint initiative of the German Federal Ministry of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ), the UK Department for Education (DfE) and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). The project is delivered by IJAB – the International Youth Service of the Federal Republic of Germany – and the British Council.
