UNESCO Launches 2025 "Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads" Photo Contest

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has announced the 7th edition of its "Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads" photo contest, inviting young photographers aged 14 to 25 to showcase their talent and contribute to cross-cultural understanding. The contest, themed "Women, Guardians of Silk Roads Heritage," aims to highlight the crucial role of women in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the historic Silk Roads.

Promoting Cultural Exchange Through Photography

The annual competition serves as a platform for young people worldwide to express their perspectives on the Silk Roads through visual storytelling. By focusing on the theme of "Women, Guardians of Silk Roads Heritage," UNESCO hopes to inspire a positive mindset among youth and engage them in celebrating the diverse cultures and traditions along these historic routes. The contest encourages submissions that capture cultural celebrations, historical sites, and the everyday lives of women who contribute to the region's rich heritage.

Contest Theme: Women, Guardians of Silk Roads Heritage

This year's theme is particularly relevant in a world facing numerous challenges, including conflicts, economic instability, and climate change. UNESCO recognizes the importance of fostering hope and encouraging young people to pursue positive paths. By showcasing the contributions of women along the Silk Roads, the contest seeks to create a digital space that promotes cultural interaction, mutual understanding, and peace. The theme provides a lens through which young photographers can explore and document the vital roles women play in their communities and the preservation of their heritage.

Expert Perspectives on Cultural Preservation

Dr. Amina Khan, a cultural heritage expert at the University of Central Asia, emphasizes the significance of this initiative. "The Silk Roads represent a complex network of interconnected cultures, and women have always been central to their preservation," Dr. Khan stated. "This photo contest provides a unique opportunity to amplify their voices and showcase their contributions to the world. It's crucial to engage young people in this process, as they are the future custodians of this invaluable heritage."

Similarly, Professor Jian Li, a historian specializing in the Silk Roads at Peking University, notes the historical context. “For centuries, women along the Silk Roads have been instrumental in maintaining cultural continuity, passing down traditions, and fostering intercultural dialogue. This contest not only celebrates their past and present contributions but also encourages a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural landscape of the Silk Roads.”

Awards and Recognition

The UNESCO photo contest offers significant recognition and prizes to its winners. The competition is divided into two age categories: 14 to 17 years old and 18 to 25 years old. A total of six awards will be given, with the first-place winners receiving a professional-grade digital single-lens reflex camera complete with an 18-55mm lens. Second and third-place winners will receive semi-professional and digital cameras, respectively. Beyond the material prizes, the contest offers invaluable exposure and recognition for young photographers on an international stage.

Eligibility and Submission Guidelines

The contest is open to individuals aged 14 to 25 from all countries. Participants must submit their photos online, adhering to specific guidelines. Photos should relate to the 2025 theme, "Women, Guardians of Silk Roads Heritage," and be submitted in JPEG/JPG format with a minimum width or height of 1500 pixels. While minor edits such as adjustments to brightness, contrast, and color balance are permitted, any alterations must be clearly described in the image's description. Photos must be original and not include personal information or identifiable third parties without consent. Participants may submit between 1 and 20 images.

Key Submission Guidelines:

Photos must relate to the 2025 theme: Women, Guardians of Silk Roads Heritage. Submit 1 to 20 JPEG/JPG images, at least 1500px wide/tall. Only minor edits are allowed (cropping, contrast, etc.). AI-generated or enhanced photos are not permitted. Images must not include personal information or identifiable third parties without consent. Participants must be ready to submit high-resolution images for print/exhibition.

Terms and Conditions

Participants must certify that they are the sole copyright holder of all submitted photographs and authorize UNESCO to use their images on its website, partner websites, and social media platforms for non-commercial purposes. The photographers will be credited in all publications. By participating, entrants grant UNESCO the right to use their name and likeness for publicity purposes. Any disputes related to the contest will be referred to arbitration following UNCITRAL rules.

How to Apply

Interested participants can apply by creating an account on the competition website and completing the online application form. A minimum of one and a maximum of 20 photos can be uploaded along with the application. The deadline for submissions is July 20, 2025, at 23:59 (GMT+1). Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the full contest guidelines and terms and conditions on the UNESCO website before submitting their entries.

Historical Context and UNESCO's Role

UNESCO's Silk Roads Programme, initiated in 1988, aims to promote cultural exchange and cooperation among countries along the ancient Silk Roads. These programs focus on preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Silk Roads and fostering mutual understanding among different cultures. The "Youth Eyes on the Silk Roads" photo contest is an integral part of this broader initiative, engaging young people in the preservation and promotion of this shared heritage.

UNESCO believes that photography can serve as a powerful tool for fostering cultural interaction, mutual understanding, and peace. By providing a platform for young photographers to share their perspectives, the contest contributes to a more inclusive and interconnected world.

Application Deadline: July 20, 2025 (23:59 GMT+1)