UNICEF Photo of the Year

“High-quality photography shows both, beauty and the things that really matter. The aim of this award is to help us increase the awareness of children’s suffering and also of their hopes and dreams“, says Dr. Jürgen Heraeus, Chairman of UNICEF Germany. “Images can tell us much better than words where children suffer and where they are neglected or exploited. They show the unique way how children experience the world, they show their tears, joys and challenges. Without much ado, they let us know why we must think of these children and how we can.”

The participants

Renowned photographers from all over the world take part in the contest. They document the living conditions of children who are in difficult circumstances such as war, material and emotional distress after natural disasters but also moments of happiness and joy of living.

Young photo journalists, above all, are being addressed with the contest. A recommendation from a renowned photography expert is a prerequisite for taking part in the competition. The award is granted annually on an international basis. A participation in the contest is not possible without a nomination. The winner receives a commission for a photo-reportage in GEO as recognition. The award is being presented in Berlin at the end of December.

The jury

An independent jury decides on the prize award of “UNICEF Photo of the Year”. Among the jury headed by Professor Klaus Honnef, art historian and publicist, are well-known photo experts from the field of photo journalism and fine arts.

Thank you

Thanks to the support of  Leica Camera AG and GEO Magazine published by Gruner + Jahr AG & Co KG the contest has been made possible every year.