On April 1st, 2026, the TUNE Network officially launched its annual activities with a dynamic online Kick-Off Meeting, bringing together member organisations from across Europe. The meeting marked the beginning of an ambitious year, following the successful approval of the SGA and the securing of EU co-funding for 2026, which enables the full implementation of its workplan.
The session opened with a warm welcome to both existing and new member’s representatives, setting a collaborative and forward-looking tone. Participants revisited the core vision of TUNE, a just and sustainable future in a digital environment, alongside its mission to strengthen democratic values, youth participation, and inclusive governance across Europe.
Strengthening Governance and Participation
A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the newly elected Coordination Board, which will guide the network’s activities in 2026. With clearly defined roles and shared responsibilities, the Board aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and communication within the network, while promoting a more participatory decision-making process.
Beyond governance, members emphasized the importance of deeper collaboration, co-creation of projects, and increased engagement across the network. This reflects a shared commitment to making TUNE not just a platform for exchange, but a space for meaningful joint action.
A Comprehensive Workplan for Youth Engagement
The 2026 workplan introduces a series of interconnected activities designed to strengthen both organisational capacity and youth participation.
The year begins with an online training for youth workers and project managers, equipping them with tools on civic engagement and democratic participation. This will be followed by an international training for young people, laying the foundation for the creation of Youth Committee and 3 Working GroupS, a key structure that will ensure young people actively contribute to shaping the network’s direction.
From mid-year onwards, Youth Committee and Working Groups will take an active role in developing campaigns, gathering insights from local communities, and contributing to the network’s strategic development. A coordinated youth consultation survey will also be implemented across all partner countries, providing valuable data on youth perspectives on participation, inclusion, and democracy.
At the local level, member organisations will organise training and youth-led activities, creating opportunities for young people to engage directly with their communities and decision-makers. These efforts will culminate in a digital youth engagement campaign with a target reach of at least 20,000 people across Europe.
Expanding the Network and Building Impact
Looking ahead, TUNE aims to further expand its network by welcoming new member organisations that align with its values and mission. At the same time, stronger monitoring mechanisms will be introduced to ensure active participation and accountability among members.
The network will continue to operate through its thematic clusters, focusing on youth participation, inclusion, mental health, and capacity building, enabling more targeted collaboration and knowledge exchange across countries.
Looking Forward
The Kick-Off Meeting concluded with a strong sense of motivation and shared purpose among participants. As TUNE moves into the implementation phase of its 2026 workplan, the network is set to strengthen its role as a key platform for youth participation and democratic engagement across Europe.
With a clear structure, ambitious activities, and an engaged community, 2026 promises to be a year of growth, collaboration, and impact for the TUNE Network.
