UNESCO Online Media and Information Literacy Training 2026: Apply by Feb 22

UNESCO-Supported Online Training on Media and Information Literacy (MIL): Apply by 22 February 2026

In an era shaped by social media, artificial intelligence, and rapid digital communication, the ability to critically understand and evaluate information has become essential. To strengthen young people’s digital resilience, UNESCO, in collaboration with the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe, is inviting applications for a new online training course on Media and Information Literacy (MIL).

This 4-week fully online course positions MIL as a core pillar of human rights education, information integrity, and democratic participation in the digital age.

📚 About the Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Training

The training explores how information is produced, shared, and interpreted in today’s complex digital environment. Participants will critically examine the links between human rights, media, digital technologies, and democracy, while gaining practical tools to counter disinformation, hate speech, and online rights violations.

The course is part of the HEY Programme and is hosted on the official Council of Europe e-learning platform.

🎯 Who Can Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for:

• Young people active in civil society organizations
• Young journalists and media practitioners
• Youth leaders, educators, and activists
• Anyone interested in strengthening digital, media, and critical thinking skills

✅ Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 18–30 years
• Language proficiency: English or French (depending on selected course)
• Must be able to actively participate online
• Priority given to applicants involved in youth or civil society work, with potential to act as multipliers

HEY - Media and Information Literacy 2026 Application Form

🌍 Course Details at a Glance

• Duration: 4 weeks
• Course dates: 2 – 29 March 2026
• Mode: Fully online
• Languages: English & French

• Participants selected:

  50 for English-language course
• 50 for French-language course

🎓 Certification & Follow-up Opportunities

• Participants who successfully complete the course will receive an official certificate
• Access to networking and exchange opportunities
• Eligible participants may later apply for Trainings of Tutors (TOT) to become certified HEY tutors
• Additional opportunities through NSC Summer Youth Universities 2026

📘 Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Understand key concepts and definitions of Media and Information Literacy
• Analyse the relationship between human rights and the digital sphere
• Explore freedom of expression, privacy, and non-discrimination online
• Examine the impact of new technologies and AI on information integrity
• Build resilience against disinformation and information disorder
• Strengthen youth e-participation and democratic engagement

🧠 Methodology

The course follows a non-formal, interactive learning approach, based on:

• Council of Europe HELP Programme
• Global Education Guidelines
• Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC)

Participants will engage in collaborative activities, discussions, and exercises, supported by three experienced tutors throughout the training.

📝 Selection Process

• Selection is based on the quality of applications
• Ensures gender and geographical balance
• Encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented groups
• Selection conducted by the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe

⏰ Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 22 February 2026
• Time: 23:59 UTC (Lisbon time)

🔗 How to Apply

• Learn more: https://bit.ly/3MlsDc8
• Apply via application portal: https://bit.ly/4as7fey

📌 Why This Opportunity Matters

With rising misinformation, digital polarization, and AI-driven content, Media and Information Literacy is no longer optional. This course empowers young people to become informed, ethical, and active participants in digital and democratic spaces — backed by UNESCO and the Council of Europe.