31 July – 14 August 2027 | Ages 18–25 | 24 participants | No participation fee
What could democracy look like in 2040?
What if you could help design the democracy of the future?
Join young people from around the world for an unforgettable two-week adventure where big ideas meet outdoor action, international friendship and plenty of fun.
As part of the Lions initiative “Inventing the Ideal Democracy Through Fun and Reflections”, you will explore how democracy has developed, question how it works today and, most importantly, imagine what it could become by 2040.
But this isn't a conference where you simply sit and listen.
MAKE FRIENDS. GET ACTIVE. THINK BIG.
Right from the start, you'll become part of an international team through exciting group challenges and outdoor activities.
Along the way, you'll meet inspiring keynote speakers and take part in workshops exploring democracy from different perspectives.
You’ll also discover democracy where history actually happened: explore Meersburg Castle, experience a mock election in St. Gallen, and visit the House of Fürstenberg in Donaueschingen to explore the fascinating journey from aristocracy to modern democracy.
YOUR IDEA. YOUR VISION. 2040.
In the workshops, your international team will create a vision of the democracy you would like to see in 2040.
There are no ready-made answers. Bring your ideas, your questions and your imagination.
A WORLD OF FRIENDS
You won't just return home with new ideas.
You will return with new friends from different countries, stories you'll be telling for years and experiences that can stay with you for a lifetime.
The Lions teams and their local partners will be there throughout the forum to make sure you feel welcomed, supported and well cared for. You’ll also experience the warmth of the Lions family and the opportunity to meet people who are genuinely looking forward to welcoming young international participants.
And because every country has a story to tell, we want you to bring a little piece of your home with you.
Prepare something that represents your country or culture:
GOOD TO KNOW
Age: 18–25
Dates: 31 July – 14 August 2027
Participants: 24
Participation fee: no fee
Accommodation: Shared rooms with bunk beds – no homestay
Swimming: Participants should be able to swim
Travel: A travel bag is more practical than a hard-shell suitcase
Meals: We’ll enjoy meals out and once in while cook together as a group
Application deadline: 31 March 2027
READY TO INVENT THE FUTURE?
Come for the adventure.
Stay for the friendships.
Leave with a vision.
Your ideas could help shape Democracy 2040!
Impressions from International Lions Youth Forum 2026: Shaping Connections, Shaping Responsibility
© Liz Hussain I Jugendforum 2026
