Democracy School Essay Competition

The Democracy School Essay Competition is hosted by Teen World of Arts (TWoA) in partnership with the European Democracy Institute at Bard College Berlin. It is the first annual edition of the competition, inviting young writers to explore how the arts intersect with democracy, politics, and society.

Entrants choose one of four set prompts covering topics such as art created in exile, music and propaganda, a personal “city letter” about a cultural event, and music as a tool of reconciliation. Essays must be 500–1,000 words and written in English. Each submission must be accompanied by a short biographical note of 100 words or fewer. The competition does not permit the use of AI to generate ideas, outline, draft, or edit the essay.

Entries are split into a junior category (high school students in years 11–12) and a senior category (undergraduates). In each category, the first-place winner receives EUR 200, written jury feedback, an individual online feedback session with faculty from Bard College Berlin or TWoA‘s editor-in-chief, and a certificate. Second- and third-place winners receive the feedback session and certificate. The three winning essays in each category are published on the TWoA website, TWoA’s Substack, and the European Democracy Institute‘s website.

Is this event legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any opportunity, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work. Check the organizer’s website and carefully read the terms and conditions!

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