Imagine a world where researchers stand up for democracy. The Eurodoc ValDem Ambassador Programme 2026 gives early-career researchers the skills to do just that. This program, run by the European Council of Doctoral Candidates and Junior Researchers, helps protect democratic values and academic freedom in Europe.
Programme Overview
The ValDem program, short for Values and Democracy, trains people to promote democratic principles in universities and research. It looks at how higher education builds strong democracies, especially when threats like democratic backsliding grow. Participants learn theory and real-world skills to become advocates in their schools and communities.
Who Should Apply?
This program fits early-career researchers, doctoral candidates, and junior academics from any field. You need ties to a European higher education institution. It welcomes people from all backgrounds who care about research, education, and democracy.
Programme Structure
The program splits into two main parts. First, it covers the democratic role of research and higher education. This includes how universities build critical thinking, civic involvement, and new knowledge.
Second, it examines public authorities and their impact on research. These bodies shape policies that either support or test democratic values in academia.
What to Expect from the Learning Experience
You will attend lectures from top experts. Join discussions across fields about democracy and research. The mix of ideas and hands-on practice helps you build advocacy plans. By the end, you will know how to act as a democracy ambassador at work and in society.
Participation Tracks
Choose from two options. Track 1 is the full program with all seminars and activities. It limits spots to 80 people for close interaction.
Track 2 lets you join only the lectures. It stays open until 260 people sign up. This track suits those wanting less commitment.
Programme Leaders
Experts like Pil Maria Saugmann, Hannah Schoch, and Norbert Bencze created the program. A team of academics and practitioners runs it. They focus on stronger democratic values in research and education.
Reasons to Join
This program lets you tackle key issues in democracy and academic freedom. Build your skills as a researcher who speaks out. Meet other European academics and experts. Help shape future research systems that support democracy.
Application Details
For Track 1, apply by March 31, 2026. Track 2 fills until capacity. Spots go fast, so sign up early. Visit the official Eurodoc page for more details or to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the ValDem Ambassador Programme?
Early-career researchers, doctoral candidates, and junior academics with ties to a European higher education institution from any field can apply.
What are the two participation tracks?
Track 1 offers the full program with seminars and activities for 80 participants, while Track 2 allows joining only lectures up to 260 people.
What skills will participants gain?
You will learn to advocate for democracy in research through expert lectures, discussions, and hands-on practice to build advocacy plans.
How do I apply for the programme?
Apply by March 31, 2026, for Track 1 or until capacity for Track 2; visit the official Eurodoc page for details and to sign up early.
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