In 2025, the UPU (Universal Postal Union) is partnering with IMO (International Maritime Organization) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) for the 54th edition of the International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People. This collaboration unites UPU’s mission to foster communication through letters, IMO’s commitment to addressing the urgent need to protect our ocean and seas, as well as UNESCO’s dedication to advancing ocean science and education through initiatives such the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 (Ocean Decade). The theme for this year is:
Imagine you are the ocean. Write a letter to someone explaining why and how they should take good care of you.
Competition Rules
- Compositions must be in the form of a letter and contain the elements of a letter (heading, greeting, body, complimentary close, signature line and postscript (optional).
- Entries must adhere strictly to the theme and not exceed 800 words in the original language.
- Submitted letters must be accompanied by a cover letter, entry form and high quality picture of the winner.
About Universal Postal Union (UPU)
Established in 1874, the Universal Postal Union (UPU), with its headquarters in the Swiss capital Berne, is the second oldest international organization worldwide.
With its 192 member countries, the UPU is the primary forum for cooperation between postal sector players. It helps to ensure a truly universal network of up-to-date products and services.
In this way, the organization fulfils an advisory, mediating and liaison role, and provides technical assistance where needed. It sets the rules for international mail exchanges and makes recommendations to stimulate growth in mail, parcel a... continue reading
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International Letter-Writing Competition
Aim and Benefits of International Letter-Writing Competition
- The top three international prize-winners will receive a beautiful medal bearing their name, or a certificate (honourable mentions).
- If conditions permit, the UPU will arrange for the three prize-winners to attend a special awards ceremony in honour of their achievement. In 2025, this prestigious event is set to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the UAE, transport and accommodation will be provided for the three prize-winners and two accompanying adults per winner.
- The runners-up and national winners are generally celebrated at ceremonies organized by their home countries on World Post Day – 9 October – the anniversary of the founding of the UPU. We invite all participating countries to join in recognizing and honouring their winners on this special occasion.
Requirements for International Letter-Writing Competition Qualification
Only young participants from 9 to 15 years may take part in the annual competition.
- Each country that decides to participate organizes its own national competition and selects national winner.
- Each country sends its first-prize letter to the UPU HQ in Berne, Switzerland to then compete for the top prizes at the international level.
- An international jury evaluates the letters and selects top three winners and up to five special mentions.
Application Deadline
May 5, 2025How to Apply
For more details, visit UPU Competition webpage
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