Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment 2026: Call for Nominations Now Open

The nominations for the 2026 Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment has been officially opened by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), in partnership with the Government of Iceland. This prestigious annual award—established in 2023 and named in honor of Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the world’s first democratically elected woman Head of State—recognizes individuals, organizations, and initiatives that have made outstanding contributions to advancing women’s and girls’ empowerment in all their diversity.

With women’s rights and gender equality facing growing pressure in Europe and internationally, the Vigdís Prize stands as a vital recognition of efforts that champion equality, leadership, and inclusive participation. The prize aims to spotlight transformative work that strengthens women’s roles in political, economic, and social spheres, fostering sustainable progress toward gender justice.

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About the 2026 Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment

The Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment is awarded annually by an independent foundation hosted at the Council of Europe. Each year, a laureate is selected based on their measurable impact, innovative approaches, and demonstrated commitment to empowering women and girls.

The prize includes:

• A €60,000 cash award

• A commemorative trophy

• Recognition at an official ceremony in Strasbourg

The 2026 award ceremony will take place on 22 June 2026 during the Summer part-session of the Parliamentary Assembly.

Since its launch, the Prize has honored organizations whose work has significantly strengthened gender equality:

• 2024 Winner: Irida Women’s Center (Greece) – supporting women experiencing poverty, exclusion, and gender-based violence.

• 2025 Winner: Women of the Sun (Palestine) – recognized for their advocacy in women’s rights and peacebuilding.

Shortlisted candidates have included the Feminoteka Foundation, Pascuala López López, Green Girls Foundation, and Gisèle Pelicot, showcasing the prize’s outreach across diverse fields and regions.

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Who Can Be Nominated?

Nominations are open to:

• Individuals

• Civil society groups

• NGOs (national or international)

• Associations

• Private companies

Any entity whose work contributes substantially to women’s empowerment may be considered.

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How to Apply

To nominate a candidate for the 2026 Vigdís Prize, applicants must submit:

1. The official 2026 nomination form (available on the Prize webpage)

2. A sponsors’ signature form signed by at least five sponsors

3. All supporting documentation

All documents must be uploaded in one PDF file, named as follows:

• For organizations: NAME – Country

• For individuals: FAMILY NAME – First Name – Country

Nominations may be submitted in English or French, and must be uploaded through the official online platform.

Nomination Deadline: 27 March 2026

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Selection Process

The Vigdís Prize follows a rigorous multi-stage evaluation process:

2026 Calendar

• 21 November 2025: Call for nominations announced

• 27 March 2026: Deadline for submissions

• May 2026: First meeting of the Selection Panel (Reykjavik)

• 21 May 2026: Bureau meeting verifying shortlisted candidates

• 21 June 2026: Second meeting of the Selection Panel (Strasbourg)

• 22 June 2026: Award Ceremony

Selection Panel Composition

The Selection Panel consists of six independent experts, appointed by:

• The Bureau of the Assembly (three members)

• The Government of Iceland (three members)

Members serve two-year terms, renewable twice. The panel includes former diplomats, equality experts, legal scholars, senior policymakers, and thought leaders in gender empowerment.

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Why This Prize Matters

At a time when threats to gender equality are intensifying, the Vigdís Prize serves as a beacon of recognition for impactful initiatives across Europe and beyond. It uplifts advocates who challenge discrimination, advance inclusive leadership, promote equitable decision-making, and support the full participation of women and girls in public and private life.

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Contact and Additional Resources

Email: vigdis.prize@coe.int
Regulations and nomination forms available on the official Vigdís Prize web page

To know more about such opportunities, click here.