International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People

An annual international letter-writing competition for young writers run by the Universal Postal Union. Participants write a letter on the year's theme (2026 theme: why human connection matters in a digital world) and national postal operators select entries to present one winning letter to the international jury. Winners receive prizes and top winners may be invited to an awards ceremony organised by the UPU.

Prizes for winners; top winner may receive sponsored transport and accommodation for themselves and one accompanying adult to an awards ceremony; international recognition by the UPU international jury.

Young writers aged 9-15 years (inclusive) are eligible to enter; participating countries organise the competition at national level through their postal operators.

Participating countries organise national competitions through their postal operators and present one winning letter to the UPU international jury; consult the Participants Guide 2026 and contact your national postal operator for guidance.