Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award 2026

The 2026 IWMF Anja Niedringhaus Award honors courageous, high-impact photojournalism by women, nonbinary, and gender-diverse creatives.

Overview

The award is part of IWMF’s mission to support underrepresented journalists globally, especially those working in dynamically difficult contexts. The 2026 Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award, presented by the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF), honors the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Anja Niedringhaus, who was known for her courageous and empathetic reporting. The award celebrates the bold, high-impact work of women, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming photojournalists whose journalism reflects the bravery and commitment embodied by Niedringhaus.

One selected photographer will receive a US$20,000 cash prize, and their work will be spotlighted during a public award ceremony.

Practical Info

Eligibility is open to women, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming photojournalists, whether freelance or affiliated with media organizations. The IWMF emphasizes integrity: submitted images should not be overly manipulated, and staging or reenacting scenes is discouraged. To apply, candidates must submit a portfolio of 12 photographs that best represent their journalistic work in challenging environments. Six out of the twelve photos must have been taken between 2024 and 2026, while the remaining six can span the photographer’s broader career. Applications are not accepted based on the length of work or engagement in conflict areas. No matter the level of experience.

Applicants also need to include a statement of up to 500 words, in English, addressing the following: the stories told through their work; the conditions under which they created their images; how their selected photos reflect the scope of their career; and how their work aligns with Anja Niedringhaus’s values.

About Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award

The Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award was created to honor the life and work of Pulitzer Prize-winning AP photographer and IWMF Courage in Journalism Award winner Anja Niedringhaus (1965-2014). With this Award, the IWMF celebrates the courageous work of women photojournalists like Anja. The Award recognizes the importance of visual journalistic work that inspires us to take action and compels us to better understand the world. Created in 2014 with a $1 million gift from the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, the Award will be given annually to a woman photojournalist whose work reflects courage and dedication.

About The International Women's Media Foundation

The International Women's Media Foundation is the only global organization built to serve the holistic needs of women and nonbinary journalists. They are a bold and inclusive organization that supports journalists where they are with awards, reporting opportunities, fellowships, grants, safety training and emergency aid. As one of the largest supporters of women-produced journalism, their transformative work strengthens equal opportunity and press freedom worldwide.