EPF Youth Congress 2026
Securing Young Patient Advocacy in Times of Multiple Crises
23–24 October 2026 | Brussels, Belgium
The European Patients' Forum and the EPF Youth Group will host the first ever EPF Youth Congress in Brussels, bringing together young patient advocates, policy-makers, healthcare professionals, researchers and civil society representatives from across Europe.
The Congress will provide a space for discussion on the challenges affecting young people living with chronic conditions in a rapidly changing social, political and economic context. It will also focus on the role of young patients in shaping more inclusive, equitable and resilient health systems across Europe.
Why this Congress?
Europe is facing multiple and interconnected crises, including pressures on healthcare systems, climate change, conflict, economic instability, misinformation and shrinking civic space. These developments have a significant impact on young people, particularly those living with chronic conditions.
At the same time, young patients are increasingly active in advocacy, research, policy and community initiatives. However, opportunities to engage directly with institutions, decision-makers and cross-sector networks remain limited.
The EPF Youth Congress 2026 aims to address this gap by creating opportunities for dialogue, collaboration and exchange between young people and key stakeholders at European level.
Main themes
The programme will explore:
- The impact of multiple crises on young patients and health systems
- Youth participation in health policy and decision-making
- Meaningful patient involvement beyond tokenistic approaches
- Health equity and social protection
- Climate, health and chronic conditions
- Cross-sector collaboration between patients, institutions and professionals
- The future of youth advocacy in Europe
The event will include plenary sessions, interactive workshops, networking activities and collaborative discussions.
Further information on registration, speakers and the final agenda will be published soon!