Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
The International Children’s Peace Prize honors a young changemaker aged 12–17 who has achieved tangible impact in advancing children’s rights. The 2026 prize offers global recognition, education support, and up to €50,000 for the winner’s project, with nominations open until 31 March 2026.
Programme Overview
The International Children’s Peace Prize recognizes and celebrates exceptional young changemakers who have shown courage, leadership, and measurable impact in defending and advancing the rights of children. Presented by KidsRights, the prize elevates youth-led action by providing global visibility, resources, and long-term support to scale proven initiatives that improve children’s lives.
Who Can Be Nominated
Eligible nominees must be children above 12 and under 18 years of age from anywhere in the world who have a clear and documented history of fighting for children’s rights. Their work must have led to concrete positive outcomes at the local, national, or global level. Nominees must consent to the nomination. Individuals and groups of up to five children may be nominated, while organizations are not eligible.
What the Winner Receives
The winner receives the Nkosi statuette at a globally celebrated and broadcasted ceremony, education support through the Desmond Tutu Study and Care Fund, and €50,000 from the International Children’s Peace Prize Project Fund to strengthen and scale the winning project. An additional €25,000 is invested in projects by other young changemakers aligned with the winner’s theme, amplifying collective impact.
Benefits for All Eligible Nominees
All eligible nominees are featured on the KidsRights website, receive an official certificate from the KidsRights Foundation, and gain access to the global digital platform State of Youth. This platform connects young changemakers worldwide and offers guidance, networking, and opportunities for financial support to advance their initiatives.
Selection Process
An independent Expert Committee evaluates nominees based on impact, dedication, and effectiveness in advancing children’s rights. Shortlisted nominees are reviewed and investigated by KidsRights, which may include local visits to assess the work and its outcomes. Following this review, the Expert Committee selects the prize winner.
Why This Prize Matters
The International Children’s Peace Prize provides more than recognition; it offers a powerful global platform to amplify youth voices, expand proven solutions, and inspire action for children’s rights worldwide. By investing in young leaders with demonstrated impact, the prize helps turn courage and commitment into sustainable change.
How to Nominate
Nominations for the International Children’s Peace Prize 2026 are open until 31 March 2026 at 17:00 CET. Nominators must submit complete and accurate information demonstrating the nominee’s impact, with the nominee’s consent included.
Key Dates
Nomination deadline: 31 March 2026 (17:00 CET).
Conclusion
The International Children’s Peace Prize stands as a global testament to the power of youth-led change. By recognizing and supporting young defenders of children’s rights, the prize enables impactful ideas to grow, reach new communities, and create lasting improvements for children around the world.
For more information, visit KidsRights.
