Frequently Asked Questions

Conference Questions
Who is invited to the Young European Symposium (YES)?
We want you to say YES!
If you are interested in European topics from various perspectives and want to learn more about them, then you are welcome to join us in Berlin.
We want to bring together young people from all over Europe and create a network and event with insightful experiences for them.We warmly welcome students, trainees, young professionals, and anyone interested, regardless of their background. The conference is open to young Europeans from all fields and at any stage of their career.
Take a look at our application page.
What are the main topics of YES?
YES will look at all different areas that impact the European future. We invited speaker from politics, science, economics, sports and culture – all with a European perspective on their topics. This means: There is a huge variety of topics but all with a European angle.
The main focus will not only be on the content on stage but also on you as a participant. Our goal is to provide a platform for exchange and an experience that enhances your personal skills and inspires you with new ideas.
What do I have to know or be interested in to participate?
There is not much prior knowledge required. If you are curious to meet people from many different backgrounds, talk about European questions and want to ask about the things you don’t know yet, then you are absolutely at the rights place. We’d love to hear about your insights!
All you need is a passion for exchanging ideas and connecting with people from across Europe.
What will the event be like?
As there is no equivalent to YES (that is, why we are bringing this concept to life), you might think of a mixture between a scholar conference, a leadership summit and an innovation fair. YES combines inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops, and high-level discussions on Europe’s most pressing challenges, bringing together young professionals, students, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds. And as a participant, you will play an active role in shaping the conference as well.
Logistics Questions
How many people will come to YES?
About 200 people will join in Berlin. This means it is a private setting which allows to ask every question that comes to your mind and creates an atmosphere which makes connecting easy.
Is the accommodation organized by YES or do I have to take care of it myself
All participants have to take care of their accommodation themselves. If you have difficulties to find something, please contact us and we try to help. Unfortunately, also the costs of travelling and the accommodation must be paid by the participants themselves.
When does the event start on Friday and end on Sunday?
The main conference takes place on Saturday (May 2) and Sunday.
On Saturday, the first event is at 9:30. (Welcome coffee, from 9:00 to 9:30). The Check-In will start at 8:00. The last events will end at 19:45.
On Sunday, the first event also is at 9:30. (Welcome coffee, from 9:00 to 9:30). The symposium ends with the ending ceremony at 14:15.
The non-mandatory social program for participants arriving during Friday starts at 14:15, please take a look at our program.
Do I have to be there throughout the full event?
As there are only 200 spots available, we want to make sure that all of them are taken by people who actually want to participate. Of course, if you need a break for an hour or need to follow an important appointment, that is absolutely fine, but in general, we wish for you to take advantage of as many events as possible.