The UNESCO International Literacy Prize 2026 is now open for nominations, recognizing outstanding literacy programmes worldwide. This fully funded award celebrates innovative initiatives that advance literacy as a driver of human empowerment and sustainable development, with a focus on the theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity’.
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has been awarding these prizes since 1967, honoring over 500 exceptional programmes. The prizes are supported by the Republic of Korea and the People’s Republic of China, offering global recognition, financial support, and a platform to scale impactful literacy work.
UNESCO International Literacy Prize Benefits
- International recognition of literacy innovation
- Financial award: US$30,000 per laureate
- Medal and diploma
- Global visibility and networking opportunities
UNESCO International Literacy Prize Eligibility Criteria
- Open to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and government bodies engaged in literacy promotion
- Programmes must demonstrate measurable impact
- Programmes must align with the 2026 theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’
- Programmes must have at least 2 years of proven operation
- Programmes that have not won the UNESCO Literacy Prizes in the past 5 years
- Applicants must seek endorsement from a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO
How to Apply for UNESCO International Literacy Prize
- Prepare application via the UNESCO online platform: https://unes.co/ilp-account
- Seek endorsement from a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO
- Submit application by 18 May 2026 (midnight GMT+2)
- Nominating entities forward applications to UNESCO by 1 June 2026 (midnight GMT+2)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the UNESCO International Literacy Prize. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
The UNESCO International Literacy Prize is a fully funded award that recognizes outstanding literacy programmes worldwide. Since 1967, it has honored over 500 initiatives that advance literacy as a driver of empowerment and sustainable development. In 2026, the theme is ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’.
Who can apply for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
Applications are open to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and government bodies engaged in literacy promotion. Programmes must demonstrate measurable impact and align with the 2026 theme. Applicants must seek endorsement from a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO.
What are the benefits of the UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
Each laureate receives US$30,000, a medal, and a diploma. The prize also provides international recognition of literacy innovation, global visibility, and networking opportunities. There are six annual prizes: three UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prizes and three UNESCO Confucius Prizes for Literacy.
What is the deadline for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize 2026?
The deadline for candidates to submit applications to nominating entities is 18 May 2026 (midnight GMT+2). Nominating entities must submit nominations to UNESCO by 1 June 2026 (midnight GMT+2). Awardees will be announced on International Literacy Day, 8 September 2026.
How do I apply for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the UNESCO online platform at https://unes.co/ilp-account. You must seek endorsement from a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO. Nominating entities will review applications and forward the strongest candidates to UNESCO.
What are the selection criteria for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
Applications are reviewed by nominating entities and then forwarded to UNESCO for evaluation by an independent International Jury of five experts. Selection is based on innovation, effectiveness, and alignment with the 2026 theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’.
How many awards are given each year?
Six annual prizes are awarded: three UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prizes focusing on mother-tongue and multilingual literacy, and three UNESCO Confucius Prizes for Literacy focusing on functional literacy in rural areas and among out-of-school youth, particularly through technology.
Which countries are eligible for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
The prize has global eligibility, open to all UNESCO Member States. Programmes from any country can apply as long as they meet the eligibility criteria and align with the 2026 theme.
What is the theme for the 2026 UNESCO International Literacy Prize?
The 2026 theme is ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’. This reflects a critical moment as the international community takes stock of progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and begins shaping a post-2030 global agenda.
When will the winners be announced?
Awardees will be announced during the celebration of International Literacy Day on 8 September 2026. The International Jury meeting will take place in July 2026, and the winners will be announced in August 2026.
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