Workshop
Apply Now: GenNow™ 2026 – The Enshittification of Democracy
What happens when politics becomes content and democracy competes with algorithms? Discover GenNow™ 2026, a political lab for Europe’s next generation of changemakers.
© FNFApplications are now open for the 2026 edition of GenNow™, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom’s flagship programme for young liberal changemakers from across Europe, South-East Europe, and Eastern Europe.
Taking place from 2–6 September 2026 in Sofia, Bulgaria, this year’s edition explores the theme “The Enshittification of Democracy: Politics in the Age of Strongman Gone Mad.”
In recent years, democratic politics has been transformed by social media platforms, digital influencers, disinformation, and increasingly polarized political environments. Across Europe and beyond, populist and authoritarian actors have adapted quickly to these changes, reshaping political narratives and public discourse.
GenNow™ 2026 invites participants to critically examine these developments and explore how democratic actors can respond. Through interactive workshops, debates, media labs, and practical exercises, participants will analyze the rise of populism and authoritarian politics, the TikTok-ization of political communication, and the future of liberal democracy in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Beyond discussing challenges, participants will work together to develop practical strategies for defending democratic values and strengthening political engagement in their communities.
Who should apply?
We are looking for young people aged 20–30 who are active in:
- Politics and political parties
- Civil society organizations
- Youth activism
- Media and journalism
- Campaigning and advocacy
- Digital communication and content creation
Applicants should be committed to liberal democratic values, interested in political communication and democratic resilience, and able to actively participate in discussions in English.
International Network
The programme brings together participants from across Europe, South-East Europe, and Eastern Europe, including Türkiye, the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and EU member states.
GenNow™ offers a unique opportunity to exchange experiences, build cross-border networks, and engage with peers facing similar political challenges in different national contexts.
Practical Information & Application
📍 Sofia, Bulgaria
📅 2–6 September 2026
📝 Application deadline: 16 June 2026
Flights, accommodation, and programme costs will be covered for selected participants.
Apply Now
👉 Apply here: [GenNow™ 2026 Application Form]
Applications are open until 16 June 2026.
We look forward to welcoming the next generation of liberal leaders, communicators, and democratic innovators to Sofia.