Understand
the impact of Artificial Intelligence on democratic integrity
WINTER DEMOCRACY ACADEMY 2026
7th-12th December 2026, Lisbon, Portugal
AI and Digital Technology as Drivers for Youth Democracy
The fourth edition of the Winter Democracy Academy aims to delve into the transformative intersection of Artificial Intelligence, digital technology, and the future of democratic resilience. Recognizing that youth engagement now unfolds within a complex digital ecosystem, this year’s Academy explores how to empower new generations to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape critically and responsibly, ensuring that the digital tools of tomorrow are harnessed for positive change and anchored in the fundamental pillars of social inclusion and human rights.
The target audience
Educators and youth workers
Specialists and researchers in Artificial Intelligence (AI) digital youth engagement
Representatives from youth organizations and civil society organizations
Political decision-makers and policymakers
Young people (between 15 and 30 years old) that can act has multipliers and interested in promoting democratic values
Objectives of the 2026 Edition
Promote
inclusive democratic innovation
Equip
modernization of public sector services, youth work and youth-led initiatives
Encourage
dialogue and cross-sector cooperation
The WDA offers the possibility of having several activities taking place simultaneously in different spaces of the venue. The idea is to increase the number and diversity of topics covered within the event, but also stimulate synergies between the different activities taking place.
The overall Winter Democracy Academy programme will be built in close collaboration with partners and contributors for its design and implementation.
Winter Democracy Academy partners will contribute with activities and expertise to enrich the program and advance the academy’s objectives, such as:
- Workshops and training sessions focused on developing competences for effectively using digital platforms and AI while critically assessing their broader impact.
- Panel discussions with experts with specialised knowledge on youth engagement, digital platforms, and the intersection of AI with youth and democracy.
- Study visits to relevant organisations or initiatives
- Round tables and working groups to facilitate the exchange of ideas and the development of joint initiatives
- Opportunities for networking and building partnerships
Shape the Future of Digital Democracy
Do you have the expertise to navigate the intersection of AI and youth engagement? We are looking for innovative workshops, provocative keynotes, and creative sessions to anchor our 2026 program.
Application deadline: 27th march 2026
