In judgingInternational Women's Media Foundation (IWMF)

Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026

The Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award honours Pulitzer Prize-winning AP photographer Anja Niedringhaus (1965-2014) and is given annually by the International Women's Media Foundation. The USD 20,000 prize is awarded to a woman, nonbinary, or gender-nonconforming photojournalist whose work reflects courage and dedication. Submissions for 2026 closed on 31 March and are now being reviewed by IWMF staff and a third-party photography consultant for integrity before judging.

AI banned
Deadline
March 31, 2026
Official siteRead full rules

The 2026 edition has ended

Entries closed on March 31, 2026. The information on this page describes this edition and stays available as a reference for the rules and the results.

Still open for entries

Browse all photo contests

Authenticity policy

AI policy

Once the deadline has passed, the IWMF and a third-party photography consultant will review all submissions for eligibility and evidence of enhancements, alterations and manipulations outside the scope of basic photo editing, and for any issues that could compromise the integrity of the award.

RAW files

Not specified

Editing rules

The IWMF engages a third-party photography consultant after the deadline to review all submissions for enhancements, alterations and manipulations outside basic photo editing. Generative AI is not separately named but is incompatible with the cited standard. Eligibility is restricted to women, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming journalists working full-time in journalism.

Verified on June 12, 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can I still enter Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026?
No. Entries for the 2026 edition closed on March 31, 2026. Check the official site for the next edition, or look at contests that are currently open.
Does Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026 allow AI-generated images?
No. Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026 does not permit AI-generated images in its competition entries.
When is the Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026 entry deadline?
Entries for Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026 close on March 31, 2026.
How much does it cost to enter Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026?
Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026 is free to enter.

Do you run a photo contest? See how organizers verify entries

More Photojournalism contests

Browse all contests
View all Photojournalism contests →