The Goi Peace Foundation and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) invite young people throughout the world up to 25 years of age to submit essays for the 2008 International Essay Contest for Young People. Entries are divided into two age categories for the awarding of prizes: up to 14 years and 15 - 25 years.

The competition’s theme is "My project to create positive change in my environment. How can I foster sustainable development in my community?" Essays should offer innovative ideas and concrete plans/projects to address the social, cultural, environmental or economic problems faced by te writer's community.

First, second, and third place and honourable mention entries in each category will receive the following prizes: (1st) 100,000 Yen (approximately US$840), (2nd) 50,000 Yen (approximately US$420), and (3rd and honourable mention) certificates and gifts. Multiple prizes will be given in all but the first place category. The first place winner will be invited to Japan to receive the award - travel expenses are paid by the sponsors.

Rules for the competition are:

• Essays must be 800 words or less, printed or typed in English, French, Spanish, or German.
• Each must include a cover page with the age category, title, name, address, telephone number, fax number, email address, nationality, age as of June 30 2008, gender, school name and grade, and word count.
• Entries must be submitted by post or email.
• Essays must be original and unpublished.
• Essays must be written by one person.
• Copyright of the essays will be assigned to the organisers.

Interested parties must send their submissions to the address below.

The deadline for application is June 30 2008.

Click here to view guidelines and eligibility criteria and to access flyers in PDF format in Japanese, English, French, German, and Spanish.

Click here to read essays of previous winners in PDF format.