RSF - Reporters sans frontières

03/17/2026 | News release | Archived content

Call for applications for the 2026 “Lucas Dolega - SAIF” RSF Photo Prize

The Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Prize is awarded at the end of each year to journalists or media outlets that have made a significant contribution to the defence or promotion of press freedom around the world. Since 2023, a Photo Prize is awarded, alongside prizes for "courage", "impact", "independence" and, since 2024, the "RSF-Mohamed Maïga African Investigative Journalism" prize.

Called the "Lucas Dolega-SAIF" Prize in memory of a young photojournalist killed in 2011, this prize will be awarded to a photographer who, through their personal commitment, their involvement in the field and the quality of their work, has contributed to press freedom.

Call for applications from 17 March 2026 Closing date for applications: 17 April 2026

Conditions for participating:

The photo-reportage must have been carried out between 17 March 2025 and 17 March 2026.

The sum of 10,000 euros will be awarded to the winner of the Prize, thanks to the support of the Society of Authors of Visual Arts and Fixed Images (SAIF). The winning reportage will also be published in RSF's "100 photos for press freedom" collection.

For each reportagesubmitted (a maximum of two per participant), the application must contain all of the following elements:

  • Numbered photos (a selection of 10 to 20 photos / jpg / 300dpi / IPTC fields)
  • A description of the report in txt or pdf format (max 300 words)
  • A biography of the candidate in txt or pdf format (max 300 words)
  • A photo of the candidate (jpg)
  • A signedcopy of the participation form
  • A signedcopy of the conditions of participation and regulations

The application must be sent by WeTransferby no later than midnight on 17 April 2026 to [email protected]

The RSF Prize Jury, consisting of eminent journalists, photographers and defenders of freedom of expression from around the world, will meet in May 2026. The results will be officially proclaimed during the 2026 RSF Awards ceremony, which will be held in June in Marseille (France).

Published on17.03.2026
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