UNESCO Launches 'Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads' Photo Contest for Young Creatives

UNESCO is excited to announce the 'Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads' photo contest, aimed at empowering young individuals to express their creativity and cultural understanding. With the theme 'Living Heritage Along the Silk Road,' participants can showcase how traditions and customs keep the history of these regions alive. Divided into two age categories, winners will receive professional cameras and have their work featured in a prestigious photo album. Interested candidates can apply until June 30, 2026, through UNESCO's official website. This contest not only offers prizes but also a chance for international recognition.

By Ambika Singh Apr 18, 2026, 10:44 IST

UNESCO's Initiative for Youth Expression

UNESCO: In an era marked by rapid changes in social, educational, and cultural landscapes, the creative voices of youth are increasingly vital. To support this, UNESCO is hosting the 'Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads' photo contest as part of its 'Silk Roads Programme.' This contest serves as a platform for young individuals to showcase their creativity, cultural insights, and visions for a more inclusive world.

Goals of the Contest

**Objectives of the Programme**

The main aim of this contest is to promote dialogue, tolerance, and understanding among various cultures. Through its initiatives, UNESCO seeks to provide equal access to education and knowledge, foster learning, and connect youth globally. This competition is a significant step towards that goal, allowing young artists to express their views and connect with the world through their photography.

Theme of the Competition

**What is the Theme?**

This year's theme is 'Living Heritage Along the Silk Road.' Participants are encouraged to capture through their photographs how traditions, cultural expressions, and customs keep the shared history of the Silk Road regions vibrant today. This can include traditional crafts like weaving, embroidery, pottery, as well as music, dance, folklore, and other cultural practices.

Eligibility Criteria

**Age Limit**

The competition is open to two age groups: participants aged 14 to 17 and those aged 18 to 25. Applicants should submit their entries in the category that corresponds to their age.

Awards for Winners

**What are the Prizes?**

Winners will receive attractive prizes. In each age category, the first-place winner will receive a professional camera, the second-place winner will get a semi-professional camera, and the third-place winner will be awarded a standard digital camera. Additionally, around 60 outstanding photographs will be included in a professional photo album titled 'Youth Lens on the Silk Road' and may be displayed at international exhibitions, providing an opportunity for global recognition.

How to Participate

**Apply Here**

Those interested in participating can find more details about the competition on UNESCO's official website at unesco.org. To apply, candidates should click on the provided link—tinyurl.com/3txb5szy—select 'Participate Now,' and complete the application process. The application deadline is June 30, 2026.