2026 Theme
- Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world.
From a postal perspective, letters remain a powerful symbol and tool of human connection. Writing a letter takes time, care and intention. It allows people to express emotions, share experiences and build relationships in a deeply personal way that transcends distance, screens and time zones. Every letter also carries the human touch of postal workers, whose role in delivering messages helps sustain trust, solidarity and connection between individuals and communities around the world.
By writing a letter to a friend, children are encouraged to reflect on their own relationships and to explore how simple acts of communication can foster empathy, kindness and understanding. Through their words, young people can share ideas on how to nurture friendships, stay connected and strengthen human bonds – both offline and online – in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
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.
How the Competition Works
Only young participants from 9 to 15 years (inclusive) may take part in the annual competition.
To be eligible, participants must be 15 years old or younger on the submission deadline of 5 May 2026
This includes participants who turn 16 on that date or after it. Participants who turn 16 before 5 May 2026 are not eligible.
- An international jury compiled by the UPU International Bureau judges the letters and selects the overall winners and candidates that merit a special mention.
- Winners and member countries are informed of the results.
- If conditions permit, the UPU will sponsor the top winner and one accompanying adult to attend a special awards ceremony, covering travel and accommodation.
- An international jury evaluates the letters and selects top three winners and up to five special mentions.
- Each country sends its first-prize letter to then compete for the top prizes at the international level.
Country selects the best national.
Prizes
- The top three international prize-winners will receive a beautiful medal (gold, silver or bronze) bearing their name, or a certificate (honourable mentions).
- The runners-up and national winners will generally receive their prize at ceremonies held in their home countries on World Post Day – 9 October – the anniversary of the founding of the UPU.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline: May 5, 2026
Grant Atlas