Algeria 
Bahrain 
Egypt 
Iran 
Iraq 
Israel 
Jordan 
Kuwait 
Lebanon 
Libya 
Morocco 
Oman 
Palestine * 
Qatar 
Saudi Arabia 
Syria 
Tunisia 
United Arab Emirates 
Yemen Speakup Arena
SpeakUp Arena is a regional debate tournament celebrating freedom of expression, critical thinking, and respectful dialogue across the Mediterranean.
Designed for young people from nine countries, the initiative invites participants to step into the spotlight, defend bold ideas, challenge opposing views, and express themselves creatively through debate and character-based performance.
More than a competition, SpeakUp Arena is a space for dialogue, tolerance, and youth empowerment. It encourages participants to listen, think critically, and engage with different perspectives while building confidence, communication skills, and regional connections.
The programme begins with a digital call for applications, where young participants submit a one-minute video defending a position in a creative and compelling way. Selected candidates then take part in live national Debate Labs, where they compete through speed debates, character challenges, and interactive rounds.
The strongest voices from each country advance to the regional phase, joining an intensive preparation journey with coaching, masterclasses, and team-based training. The journey culminates in the Grand Finale, where finalists come together for a dynamic live debate championship celebrating youth voices, creativity, and the values of open dialogue.
Through SpeakUp Arena, young people are not only debating ideas. They are building bridges, shaping conversations, and showing the power of dialogue to connect communities across the region.
