Ten Romanian cities compete for 2028 Youth Capital title

Ten cities in Romania have entered the competition to become the 2028 Youth Capital, marking a record level of participation for the program. The finalists include Bistrița, Brașov, București (Sector 1), Deva, Mediaș, Râmnicu Sărat, Râmnicu Vâlcea, Satu Mare, Suceava, and Târgu Neamț.

Candidates submitted complete files by September 21, detailing their vision, local youth ecosystems, proposed programs, partners, and estimated budgets. The evaluation process involves an expert jury specializing in public administration, education, and urban development, alongside a 'Youth Voice' group consisting of 24 young people aged 14 to 29, who contribute 21% of the total score.

The written evaluation phase runs from September 22 to October 15. Following this, two or three cities will be invited to defend their projects live at the Youth Summit. The winner will receive the title for 2028, 50,000 euros from BCR for projects, and the responsibility of hosting the Youth Summit in the title year.