J4T AWARDS 2026: submissions are open
02/11/2026
The human rights initiative Journalists for Tolerance (J4T) invites journalists and Belarusian media outlets to take part in the annual J4T AWARDS 2026 competition.
The competition aims to strengthen the professional skills of media workers in covering equality and non-discrimination, support social journalism, and increase the positive visibility of vulnerable groups in Belarus.
Best Story on Equality and Non-Discrimination
This category accepts articles, photo reports, videos, podcasts and radio programmes that promote equality and non-discrimination of vulnerable social groups. Works must have been published between 1 November 2025 and 31 October 2026.
Each author may submit up to three works. To take part, fill in the online form (in Belarusian) by 20 November 2026 inclusive.
The winner will be chosen by a jury of editors from Belarusian media outlets. The top three will receive certificates of honour, and the winner will receive a special prize: a study trip to a European country in 2027.
Last year’s winner, Maryna Mikhailava (Salidarnasc), visited Stockholm Pride in 2026. Earlier prizes included trips to EuroPride in Oslo, Thessaloniki and Belgrade.
Newsroom of the Year
In this category you can nominate a newsroom that in 2026 promoted equality and inclusion and covered the problems faced by vulnerable groups in Belarus and in countries of relocation.
The winner is chosen by NGO representatives and independent activists working on inclusion. This year, nominations are collected through the Telegram bot @j4t_awards_bot (in Belarusian). It takes 3–4 minutes. Nominations are open until 20 November 2026 inclusive.
Person of the Year
A special J4T category for contributions to the development of initiatives and the human rights movement in Belarus. The laureate is chosen by the Journalists for Tolerance team. Last year’s Person of the Year was Alisa Sarmant (TG House).
The results of J4T AWARDS 2026 will be announced no later than 20 December 2026. More details are on the competition page. Questions: event@j4t.info
