Essay Writing Competitions in 2020
Every year, there are numerous essay writing competitions held across the world to encourage thoughtful discussion on important issues and give students an opportunity to sharpen their writing skills. This article provides an overview of some of the major essay writing competitions open for entry in 2020, along with details on how to participate and win prizes.
United Nations International Essay Competition on Women, Peace and Security
One of the premier essay competitions organized annually is the United Nations International Essay Competition on Women, Peace and Security. Now in its 15th year, the competition aims to engage youth in meaningful discussion on UNSC Resolution 1325 and related resolutions that address the impact of war on women, their role in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, humanitarian response and post-conflict reconstruction.
The 2020 competition asks participants to submit a 2,500-3,000 word essay responding to the theme “Positive peacebuilding: How can young women help to promote non-violence and reconciliation in their local communities?” Essays can be written in English, French or Spanish and submitted by February 29, 2020. Winners will receive cash prizes up to $2,000 and an all-expenses paid trip to New York to participate in the annual Commission on the Status of Women at UN Headquarters. This competition is open to those aged 18-30 from any country. Detailed guidelines and an online submission portal can be found on the UN Women website.
The Art of Living International Essay Competition
To encourage values-based learning and creative expression, The Art of Living Foundation conducts an annual international essay competition open to people of all nationalities aged 13-30 years. The 2020 theme challenges participants to discuss “How can inner peace and well-being help address societal challenges of today?” Original 1,500-2,000 word essays in English should be submitted online between January 1-31, 2020 for the chance to win trip to India plus cash prizes up to $3,000. Past winners have participated in peace workshops and been featured speakers at Art of Living events worldwide. Full rules and entry submission link are available on the official website.
International Essay Contest on Human Rights
One of the oldest continuously running essay contests is the International Essay Contest on Human Rights organized by Emory University’s Center for Human Rights and Health since 1995. Each year it invites undergraduate and graduate students from any country to contribute 1,500-3,000 word essays analyzing a specific contemporary human rights issue. The 2020 theme calls for submissions exploring “The Challenge of Ensuring Rights During Global Health Crises” in relation to COVID-19 and future pandemics.
Cash awards up to $2,000 are given to top essays judged on critical analysis, quality of research and expression of an original human rights perspective. Deadline for 2020 entries is July 15th with winners notified by September. Complete details including topic guidelines and online application portal can be accessed via the Center for Human Rights website. Participating provides an excellent opportunity for students to dive into an important human rights debate.
Friedrich Naumann Foundation Anniversary Essay Competition
To mark its 60th anniversary in 2020, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation is hosting an international essay competition for university students and young professionals around the themes of liberalism, individual freedom and civic engagement. Entrants are invited to respond in 3,000-5,000 words to the prompt “What does liberalism mean today – in theory and practice?” in English, French, Spanish or German. Two winners each will be chosen for the undergraduate and postgraduate categories, receiving €2,000 and €3,000 respectively.
Essays addressing the relevance and challenges of classical liberal principles from diverse perspectives will be most highly considered. Submissions accepted between January 1-March 31, 2020 via the foundation website. This competition provides a unique platform for new ideas on liberalism and its role in an evolving global society.
London International Essay Competition
The London International Essay Competition brings together writers across borders each year through open-ended long form essays in English on topics related to global affairs. There are no limitations on style or approach, allowing creativity and personal insight to shine through on important contemporary issues. The 2020 competition calls for 6,000-8,000 word submissions engaging with the broad theme “Visions of Tomorrow.”
Five prize winners will share £10,000 in cash awards, judged based on quality of ideas, research, structure and fluency. Established in 2011, this competition sees annual participation from hundreds of students and young professionals worldwide. Entries for 2020 should be emailed by July 15 to the given address listed on the official competition website.
In addition to these some of the major essay competitions, there are many other opportunities organized by universities, literary journals, NGOs and charitable foundations focused on particular fields of interest like law, economics, environment and more. Staying updated on official essay competition listings is the best way for students to learn about relevant upcoming contests and deadlines. Participating is a valuable chance for both personal growth and making an impact on issues that matter. Winners often gain recognition and contacts opening future opportunities as well.
Andrew Stroud