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14 -17 September 2026 | Pajulahti Paralympic Training Centre | Nastola, Finland
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#IDForum2026: Maximising Impact
A key European gathering for people working on inclusion and diversity in youth work and youth policy. The ID Forum will bring together 150 people to share experiences, learn from each other, and develop ideas to make EU Youth programmes more inclusive and accessible for everyone
The Inclusion & Diversity (ID) Forum has become the central European platform for exploring inclusion and diversity in the EU youth programmes. Organised at key moments, the Forum provides a space for reflection, dialogue, and forward-looking vision-setting.
As the 2021-2027 generation of Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps comes to an end, 2026 is a key moment to reflect on what we have achieved and what still needs to improve in the Inclusion & Diversity Strategy. At the same time, the Forum will help shape the next generation of EU youth programmes (2028-2034). We will also explore how inclusion and diversity connect to other EU priorities, such as Preparedness and Intergenerational Fairness.
Young people across Europe are facing many challenges - including mental health struggles, the digital divide, job insecurity and lack of affordable housing, climate anxiety and growing pressure on democratic values. These challenges affect participation, wellbeing and equal opportunities. The Forum will explore how European youth programmes can respond to these realities and help build a more just and inclusive society.
After three successful editions, the ID Forum continues to grow, building on the insights, impact, and experience to create a more meaningful, accessible, and inclusive Europe. Once more, drawing inspiration from the ID Roadmap launched in 2021, this year’s theme is: “Maximising Impact” How can European youth programmes and projects create meaningful and lasting change in inclusion and diversity?
Through keynote inputs, panel discussions, round tables, study visits and co-creation workshops, we will explore practical examples and develop new ideas together.
The Inclusion & Diversity (ID) Forum has become the central European platform for exploring inclusion and diversity in the EU youth programmes. Organised at key moments, the Forum provides a space for reflection, dialogue, and forward-looking vision-setting.
As the 2021-2027 generation of Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps comes to an end, 2026 is a key moment to reflect on what we have achieved and what still needs to improve in the Inclusion & Diversity Strategy. At the same time, the Forum will help shape the next generation of EU youth programmes (2028-2034). We will also explore how inclusion and diversity connect to other EU priorities, such as Preparedness and Intergenerational Fairness.
Young people across Europe are facing many challenges - including mental health struggles, the digital divide, job insecurity and lack of affordable housing, climate anxiety and growing pressure on democratic values. These challenges affect participation, wellbeing and equal opportunities. The Forum will explore how European youth programmes can respond to these realities and help build a more just and inclusive society.
After three successful editions, the ID Forum continues to grow, building on the insights, impact, and experience to create a more meaningful, accessible, and inclusive Europe. Once more, drawing inspiration from the ID Roadmap launched in 2021, this year’s theme is: “Maximising Impact” How can European youth programmes and projects create meaningful and lasting change in inclusion and diversity?
Through keynote inputs, panel discussions, round tables, study visits and co-creation workshops, we will explore practical examples and develop new ideas together.
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To look back and learn from the current Inclusion & Diversity Strategy and the EU youth programmes (2021-2027) - what worked well and what we can improve.
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- Participation Duration: Participants are expected to attend the entire event. Board and lodging are covered from Monday, 14 September (from 15:00) until Thursday, 17 September (departure after lunch).
- Travel Arrangements: Your travel costs will be covered by your National Agency (or regional SALTO, where applicable). On the arrival and departure days, shuttle buses will be organised between Helsinki Airport and the venue. Detailed travel guidelines will be shared with selected participants closer to the event.
- Venue and Accommodation: The entire programme and accommodation will take place at Pajulahti Sports Centre*. All participants will be accommodated in single rooms and personal assistants covered, when applicable. The facilities are equipped with accessible toilets and many rooms are adapted for persons with reduced mobility.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided as a buffet at the venue. For ecological reasons, most food will be vegetarian and from local sources. The venue can accommodate other dietary needs (medical, religious, ethical or other), when indicated.
- Language and Accessibility: English is the main language, with sign language interpretation and accommodations for diverse communication needs. Safer spaces and confidential advisors are available for support during the event.
*About the venue: The Pajulahti Sports Center (Liikuntakeskus Pajulahti) is Finland’s only official Olympic and Paralympic Training Center. Established in 1929, it has evolved into a hub for elite athletes, sports students, and recreational visitors, offering diverse training facilities and accessibility for para-sports, integrated with the surrounding nature.
Curious about our journey so far?
Take a look at the previous forums: #IDFORUM2021 #IDFORUM2023 #IDFORUM2024
Take a look at the previous forums: #IDFORUM2021 #IDFORUM2023 #IDFORUM2024
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- You can apply until 19 April 2026, 23:59 CET via the SALTO-Youth platform (click “Apply now”).
- We aim to create a diverse group in terms of experience, background, geography and perspectives.
- All applicants will be informed about the selection results by 5 May 2026 at the latest.
- Please note that we usually receive a high number of applications and cannot select everyone.
- If you experience difficulties in accessing the form, please send an email to [email protected].
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Preliminary Programme
Click image for larger view or download in PDF |
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