UNESCO is officially calling for nominations for the 2026 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize, a globally recognized award honoring extraordinary contributions to the defense and promotion of press freedom. This prestigious prize highlights the courage, integrity, and resilience of journalists, media organizations, and institutions committed to freedom of expression, particularly in high-risk situations.

Established in 1997 in memory of Guillermo Cano, a Colombian journalist tragically killed in the line of duty, the Prize serves as a beacon for the global journalism community. The award not only honors outstanding work in press freedom but also provides international recognition and protection to those who take risks to uphold the principles of free and independent journalism.

Eligibility Criteria for the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize

The Prize welcomes nominations from individuals, organizations, and institutions that have made a notable contribution to the defense and promotion of press freedom worldwide. The following are key eligibility details:

• Eligible Candidates: Individuals, non-governmental organizations, institutions, and other entities actively contributing to press freedom.

• Geographical Scope: Open globally; candidates from any country can be nominated.

• Media Types: All forms of media are considered, including print, broadcast, and digital media.

• Nomination Sources:

  • UNESCO Member States, in consultation with their National Commissions, may nominate candidates.

  • International and regional professional non-governmental organizations working in journalism and press freedom may submit up to three candidates.

  • Self-nominations are not accepted.

Previous laureates include prominent figures and organizations such as:

• Palestinian journalists covering the Gaza conflict

• La Prensa de Nicaragua, highlighting exile journalists

• Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate (2021)

• Niloofar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, journalists released after 17 months in prison

• Narges Mohammedi, Nobel Peace Prize recipient (2023)

• Belarusian Association of Journalists (BAJ)

These recipients demonstrate the Prize’s impact in protecting journalists, amplifying their work, and promoting international recognition of press freedom efforts.

Prize Details

The UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize is awarded annually and includes the following benefits:

• Monetary Prize: USD $25,000 (minimum), funded by voluntary contributions from states, international agencies, and other entities.

• Symbolic Recognition: A certificate and an object representing the award.

• Award Ceremony: Takes place every year on World Press Freedom Day, 3 May, in a formal ceremony hosted by UNESCO.

• Additional Recognition: The laureate may deliver a lecture on their work relevant to the Prize, organized during or alongside the award ceremony.

The Prize is supported by key institutions, including the Guillermo Cano Isaza Foundation (Colombia), Namibia Media Trust (Namibia), The Thomson Reuters Foundation (UK), and Democracy & Media Foundation (The Netherlands).

Application and Nomination Process

Interested parties must follow the official nomination process to ensure consideration:

1. Nomination Form: Submissions must use the official UNESCO nomination form, completed in English or French.

2. Supporting Documents: Each nomination must include:

   • Candidate’s background and achievements

   • Major contributions to press freedom

   • Definition of the candidate’s relevance to the Prize’s objectives

   • High-resolution portrait photo of the candidate

3. Submission Methods: Nominations can be submitted by post or email to the UNESCO Secretariat.

4. Deadline: All nominations must be submitted by 15 February 2026.

5. Selection: A jury of six independent members from UNESCO-defined regions evaluates nominations. A working group pre-selects up to twelve candidates, and the Director-General of UNESCO awards the Prize based on the jury’s recommendation.

Important Dates

• Nomination Submission Deadline: 15 February 2026

• Jury Voting: Around 15 March 2026

• Award Ceremony: 3 May 2026, on World Press Freedom Day

The UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize 2026 offers a unique opportunity to honor courageous journalists and organizations defending press freedom under challenging conditions. The Prize not only recognizes exceptional contributions globally but also strengthens international advocacy for freedom of expression and information.

For those interested in submitting nominations or learning more about eligibility and the nomination process, please visit the official application portal below:

Learn More and Apply Here