Become a Cross-Border Ambassador – applications open for the 2026–2027 programme

Young Europeans interested in cross-border cooperation and keen to contribute to the European debate are invited to apply for the next edition of the Cross-Border Ambassadors programme. Applications for the 2026–2027 mandate are open until 31 August 2026.

The programme is organised by the Border Focal Point Network (BFPN) and coordinated by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO). It is open to people aged 18–30 living in an EU Member State or EFTA country and having a strong connection to a border region. Poland is among the countries eligible for the programme.

Up to 10 young people will be selected to become Cross-Border Ambassadors for a six-month mandate running from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027. They will bring the perspective of young people and border communities to the European-level discussion on cross-border cooperation, while helping to raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities associated with living and working across borders.

As part of the programme, Ambassadors will take part in monthly online meetings with DG REGIO and the BFPN team and contribute to the Network’s communication activities, including content published on Futurium, social media and newsletters. Each Ambassador will also choose at least one individual focus activity, such as producing a short video or podcast, organising a local event or cultural exchange, or preparing a short report or policy brief with recommendations.

Applicants should be fluent in English, have a genuine interest in European territorial cooperation, cross-border policy or local engagement, and be prepared to commit approximately two days per month to the programme.

To apply, candidates must submit a motivation letter of up to 500 words and a short video of no more than two minutes presenting their personal experience with cross-border issues and one solution they would propose. Applications will be assessed on engagement and motivation, innovative thinking and problem-solving, communication and storytelling skills, and commitment to European values.

The deadline for applications is 31 August 2026. Final candidates will be notified by 24 September, while the selected Ambassadors will begin the programme with an online onboarding session on 1 October.

More information about the programme and the application process is available on the Border Focal Point Network website.