Unify Conference 2026: 146 Representatives, 30+ Nations, One Shared Mission
From 5 to 8 March 2026, Budapest hosted the Unify Conference, bringing together 146 representatives from YMCAs across Europe and beyond. The event was hosted by YMCA Hungary and centred on the theme: “Beyond Barriers: Bold Steps with Christ.”
YMCA was founded in 1844 with a Christian identity at its core – an identity reflected in the Paris Basis (1855), which continues to guide the movement’s values. In practice, YMCAs across Europe work with all young people, regardless of faith background, ethnicity, or social situation. Unify is the network within the YMCA movement where this Christian foundation is explored, strengthened, and shared across national contexts.
The conference brought together participants from more than 30 countries for four days of workshops, discussion, and shared reflection. Sessions addressed leadership development, cross-cultural collaboration, and the role of values-based youth work in diverse social environments.
The opening session was led by Emma Osmundsen – YMCA Europe`s President, followed by a keynote from Tim Roberts on navigating complexity and division in contemporary society. Steve Bavington from YMCA Black Country Group led a series of workshops focused on equipping youth leaders for work in challenging contexts.
One of the most significant moments at the conference came from young people themselves – participants who spoke about practising their values and identity in environments where self-expression faces legal or social restrictions. Their accounts offered a concrete illustration of the pressures many young people navigate across Europe and beyond, and why safe spaces for reflection and community matter.
This is consistent with a broader YMCA principle: young people need space to ask questions, develop identity, and grow – whether that involves faith or not.
Unify operates as a connector within the global YMCA network. Each YMCA is locally rooted, but the conference reinforces a shared framework – common values, cross-border relationships, and a collective commitment to youth work that is inclusive, grounded, and accountable to something beyond institutional interest.
The Budapest edition demonstrated that this network is active and expanding, with new mission-oriented networks emerging each year across different regions.
Unify conferences take place every two years – the previous edition was held in Prague in 2024. Youth camps run each summer across Europe, giving young people direct access to the international network.
The next in-person conference is expected in 2028.
