Cross-Border Ambassadors: Calling for participants for 2026/27

The EU's Cross-Border Ambassadors initiative is entering its fourth round: up to ten young people with links to a border region will be selected to represent their communities, work directly with the European Commission and develop youth-led content on cross-border issues over a period of six months. The deadline for applications is 31 August 2026.

The Cross-Border Ambassadors are intended to raise awareness of cross-border challenges and build bridges between countries. The term of office runs from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027. Participants will work for around two days a month, communicate in English and report on their experiences.

From online meetings to a certificate of completion

During the programme, the ambassadors will regularly take part in monthly online meetings with the European Commission's Directorate-General for Regional Policy (DG REGIO) and the Border Focal Point Network (BFPN). During these meetings, they exchange ideas with participants from various European border regions and gain insights into cross-border cooperation.

In addition, they develop their own projects, for example in the form of videos, podcasts, articles or local events. They also contribute to a joint presentation on a cross-border topic of their choice and publish an article on the Futurium platform. At the end of the programme, they will receive an official certificate of participation signed by DG REGIO.

Who can apply

Applications are open to people aged between 18 and 30 who are resident in a Member State of the European Union or in an EFTA country (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland) and who have a close connection to a border region. Further requirements include fluency in English and a willingness to participate actively for around two days per month.

Application

Those interested can apply via the EU's official application form. Applications must include a letter of motivation of no more than 500 words and a short creative video of no more than two minutes. The deadline for applications is 31 August 2026.

Further information is available at futurium.ec.europa.eu.

About EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt

EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt is part of the Office of the Mayor and the Executive Board of the City of Bocholt and serves as the local point of contact for questions relating to the European Union. Its role is to provide local residents with information, advice, assistance and answers to questions about Europe. Furthermore, EUROPE DIRECT Bocholt aims to promote engagement with Europe and to keep people informed about current developments in European politics.