The 8th edition of the Young European Law Scholars (YELS) Conference will be held on 3-4 July 2025 at Utrecht University. The European Union (EU) is currently facing many multifaceted challenges with among others rising extremism and misinformation, increasing digitalisation, wars at the doorstep of the EU, trade conflicts and climate change effects. In this context, transitions are often needed to address these challenges, for example, making societies more sustainable and increasing the safety on online markets.

At the same time as we strive to address these challenges, the EU aims to maintain its core values, such as democracy. As a cornerstone of the EU, democracy is enshrined in its treaties and reflected in its institutions and policies. However, the practical realization of democratic values within the EU continues to present numerous challenges and opportunities.

This conference seeks to delve into the multifaceted nature of democracy as a founding value of the EU in times of transition, examining its theoretical underpinnings, practical applications, and the challenges it faces.

Submissions on any aspect of this theme are welcomed, theoretical and empirical perspectives. 

The conveners of the 8th YELS conference invite young scholars of European law to submit an abstract by 31st January 2025 to YELS2025@uu.nl