Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment 2026: €60,000 Award for Global Leaders Advancing Gender Equality

The Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment 2026 is a prestigious international award presented by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), in partnership with the Government of Iceland. This highly respected prize recognizes and rewards outstanding individuals, organizations, and initiatives that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality across the world.

Named after Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the first woman in history to be democratically elected as a Head of State, this award celebrates transformative leadership, inclusive policies, and impactful actions that promote the full and equal participation of women and girls in all spheres of life.

With a monetary award of 60,000 euros and global recognition, the Vigdís Prize stands as one of the most significant honors dedicated to gender equality and women’s rights.

About the Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment

Launched in 2023, the Vigdís Prize aims to spotlight initiatives and leaders who are making meaningful contributions toward empowering women and girls in diverse contexts.

The award specifically recognizes efforts that:

• Advance gender equality at local, national, or global levels

• Promote equal participation in political, social, and economic decision-making

• Foster inclusive policies and practices

• Address systemic barriers affecting women and girls

• Support diversity and inclusion across all communities

At a time when gender equality continues to face challenges globally, this prize serves as a powerful platform to highlight impactful work and inspire further progress.

Prize Value and Recognition

The Vigdís Prize offers both financial and symbolic recognition to its winner:

• A monetary award of 60,000 euros

• A prestigious trophy

• International recognition and visibility

• Opportunity to present work on a global stage

The award ceremony takes place in Strasbourg, France, during the Summer Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

Key Dates for 2026

Applicants and nominators should take note of the following timeline:

• 21 November 2025: Call for candidates opened

• 27 March 2026: Deadline for submission of nominations

• May 2026: First meeting of the Selection Panel in Reykjavik

• 21 May 2026: Shortlisting of three candidates

• 21 June 2026: Final selection of the winner in Strasbourg

• 22 June 2026: Official award ceremony

Who Can Be Nominated

The Vigdís Prize is open to a wide range of nominees who are actively contributing to women’s empowerment.

Eligible nominees include:

• Individuals

• Civil society organizations

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)

• Associations

• Private companies

Both national and international candidates are eligible, reflecting the global scope of the award.

Areas of Impact Recognized

Nominees should demonstrate significant achievements in one or more of the following areas:

1. Advancing Gender Equality

• Promoting equal rights and opportunities for women and girls

• Addressing discrimination and gender-based inequalities

• Supporting inclusive governance and leadership

2. Empowering Women and Girls

• Initiatives that enhance access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities

• Programs that support women’s leadership and participation

• Actions that protect women’s rights and dignity

3. Promoting Inclusive Participation

• Encouraging women’s involvement in decision-making processes

• Creating platforms for marginalized voices

• Strengthening representation across sectors

Nomination Requirements

To successfully submit a nomination for the Vigdís Prize 2026, the following requirements must be met:

1. Nomination Form

• Complete the Official Nomination Form

• Provide detailed information about the nominee and their work

2. Language

• Applications must be submitted in either English or French

3. Sponsorship Requirement

• Each nomination must be supported by at least five sponsors

• Sponsors must provide their signatures using the official sponsors’ form

4. Submission Format

• All documents must be compiled into a single PDF file

• File naming format:

  • For organizations: NAME – Country

  • For individuals: FAMILY NAME – First Name – Country

5. Submission Process

• Upload the complete application package through the official submission platform

Selection Process

The selection of the Vigdís Prize winner is carried out by an independent Selection Panel composed of experts in women’s empowerment.

Composition of the Panel:

• Six independent members

• Three nominated by the Parliamentary Assembly

• Three nominated by the Government of Iceland

Evaluation Criteria:

• Demonstrated impact on women’s empowerment

• Innovation and sustainability of the initiative

• Contribution to gender equality and inclusion

• Measurable outcomes and long-term potential

Award Ceremony

The Vigdís Prize 2026 will be awarded during an official ceremony held in Strasbourg, France, on 22 June 2026, as part of the Summer Session of the Parliamentary Assembly.

The winner will be announced by the President of the Parliamentary Assembly, providing global recognition and visibility.

Previous Winners

The Vigdís Prize has already recognized impactful initiatives across the world:

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

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

These examples highlight the diversity and impact of initiatives honored by the prize.

Why You Should Apply or Nominate

The Vigdís Prize offers a unique opportunity to:

• Gain international recognition for impactful work

• Secure financial support to expand initiatives

• Join a global network of changemakers

• Amplify efforts in advancing gender equality

• Inspire others through proven impact

How to Apply

To apply or nominate a candidate:

1. Carefully review the Official regulations

2. Complete the Nomination form

3. Gather at least five Sponsor signatures

4. Compile all documents into one PDF

5. Submit via the Official Platform before the deadline

Deadline

All nominations must be submitted by 27 March 2026.

Late submissions will not be considered.

Learn more about the Vigdís Prize for Women’s Empowerment 2026 HERE.

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