JOURNALISTS worldwide are invited to submit entries for the 2027 True Story Award.
The True Story Award recognises written reports by journalists from around the world that stand out for their depth of research, quality of writing, and societal relevance. Adherence to fundamental journalistic principles is essential, while country-specific contexts are also taken into account. The award is presented in three categories: “Research”, “Storytelling”, and “Impact”.
This award recognises the high quality of journalistic research. The evaluation takes into account the scope of the research, time invested, data analysis, the difficulty of obtaining information, and any risks involved.
The organiser says, “The international jury, comprising 45 members from 24 countries, first selects the 36 best submissions. Their authors are invited to the 2027 True Story Award ceremony and the True Story Festival in Bern, Switzerland, where they present their work.
The festival creates opportunities for exchange between the audience and journalists who have travelled from around the world. In a second step, the main jury selects the three winners in the categories “Research”, “Storytelling”, and “Impact”. Each winner receives a prize of USD 20,000.
The award ceremony takes place on the Friday of the True Story Festival in Bern and marks the opening of the festival.
Reports from around the world published between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026, in daily or weekly newspapers, magazines or online are eligible for submission to the 2027 True Story Award.
The deadline for applications is October 31, 2026. Interested applicants can apply here.
Blessing Otoibhi is a Multimedia Journalist and Anchor host for the News in 60 seconds at The International Center For Investigative Reporting. You can shoot her a mail via Botoibhi@icirnigeria.org or connect on Twitter @B_otoibhi