📢 Call for application: "Progressives Speak Up" School | Athens, 10-11 September 2026

Be ready for elections!

👋 Hello,

We are excited to announce the next edition of the "Progressives Speak Up School", our flagship training programme for young progressive local and regional leaders from across Europe.

📍 This year's School will take place from 10 to 11 September 2026 in Athens, Greece. This edition will focus on a key challenge for young progressive leaders: how to communicate effectively, build impactful campaigns and connect with citizens.

Over two days, participants will take part in:

  • Interactive workshops and participatory labs
  • A high-level PES Group public event
  • Inspiring social activities to connect with both young and senior progressive politicians

📝 Steps to apply

Apply now to be among the young local leaders we will select and reimburse their travel and accommodation to attend this event. Applications are open until Wednesday 17 June 2026 (23:59 CET).

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

🌟 Who can apply?

  • Participants must be elected at the local or regional level
  • The age limit of the participants is 40 years
  • Participants are expected to attend the full programme from Thursday 10 September at 9h30 until Friday 11 September 13h00. To celebrate the start of the school, we will be having an informal drink on Wednesday 9 September, at 1h:30. We would be delighted if you could join us.
  • A good level of English is required

Unfortunately, only a limited number of people can attend this event, and the PES Group Secretariat will need to carry out a selection process, taking into account gender, geographical balance and motivation. Travel and accommodation expenses will be reimbursed. You will be informed about the result of this selection by the end of June.

We look forward to welcoming you in Athens to exchange ideas, defend democracy and build a progressive future together.

The PES Group Secretariat

Bastian Meić

Bastian Meić

Political Adviser
Sophie Haas

Sophie Haas

Political Assistant
Isabella Galimi

Isabella Galimi

Communications and Press Officer

 

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About PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions

The Group of the Party of European Socialists (PES Group) in the European Committee of the Regions is a political group that brings together social democratic and progressive locally and regionally elected politicians from across the European Union. The Group aims at taking forward a progressive European vision with solidarity, sustainability, as well as social and territorial cohesion at its core.

Contact

Rue Belliard 101 B-1040 Brussels Belgium

+32 2 282 22 23

pes-group@cor.europa.eu

pes.cor.europa.eu