UNESCO Juan Bosch Prize 2026 — Call for Nominations for Social Sciences Excellence

The UNESCO Juan Bosch Prize 2026 is now open for nominations. This prestigious international award recognises outstanding contributions to the development, dissemination, and use of social sciences knowledge that notably influence public policy, strengthen democratic governance, and contribute to human rights and sustainable development.

Named after Juan Bosch — a distinguished Dominican statesman, sociologist, educator, and writer — the Prize highlights the transformative role of social sciences in addressing contemporary global challenges.

About the Juan Bosch Prize

The Juan Bosch Prize was established to celebrate innovation and excellence in the social sciences and to honour individuals or institutions whose work has produced significant societal impact. The Prize underscores UNESCO’s commitment to evidence-based policy, deeper understanding of social phenomena, and inclusive dialogue across cultures and regions.

This award is part of UNESCO’s broader efforts to promote research, reflection, and practical insights that help societies navigate complex transitions and promote peace and equity.

Prize Objectives

The Juan Bosch Prize aims to:

• Celebrate exceptional scholarly contributions that advance the social sciences
• Highlight research that informs impactful public policy and social transformation
• Support knowledge that addresses pressing issues such as inequality, governance, human rights, and sustainable development
• Encourage interdisciplinary approaches and innovative thinking in social inquiry

The Prize also seeks to amplify voices and work that may have global resonance and inspire other scholars and practitioners.

Who Can Be Nominated?

Nominations may be submitted for:

• Individual scholars, researchers, or educators whose work has shaped thinking or practice in social sciences
• Research teams whose collaborative work has produced notable outcomes
• Institutions or organisations that have demonstrated excellence in social sciences research, dissemination, or policy engagement

Nominees should demonstrate a track record of excellence, innovation, and impact in their contributions to social sciences knowledge and practice. Geographical diversity is encouraged, with recognition given to work from all regions of the world.

Eligibility & Criteria

To be eligible for nomination:

• The work nominated should have international or regional relevance
• Contributions should be grounded in rigorous research and evidence
• Nominees must demonstrate measurable influence on public discourse, policy, or practice
• Nominations may come from academic institutions, research councils, civil society organisations, and other relevant stakeholders

The Prize committee reviews nominations based on scholarly quality, innovation, ethical standards, and impact.

Nomination Process

The nomination process typically involves:

• Submission of a nomination form with a detailed description of the nominee’s work
• Supporting documents such as CVs, publications, impact statements, and references
• Endorsements or letters of recommendation from academic or sector peers
• Evidentiary materials demonstrating the relevance and influence of the nominee’s contributions

UNESCO convenes an international jury of experts to evaluate nominations and select the laureates.

Timeline & Award Ceremony

• Call for nominations opens: (Annual cycle for 2026)
• Deadline for submissions: Typically in early 2026
• Jury review and selection: Following the deadline
• Award announcement and ceremony: Expected later in 2026

Exact dates are set by UNESCO and communicated each cycle to ensure timely participation.

Why the Juan Bosch Prize Matters

The Juan Bosch Prize amplifies the importance of the social sciences in solving global challenges by:

• Recognising scholarship that bridges research and real-world impact
• Encouraging new generations of social scientists and thinkers
• Highlighting interdisciplinary and inclusive research approaches
• Bringing global visibility to work that informs equitable policy and practice

As societies confront complex issues — from inequality and migration to climate justice and digital governance — the Prize promotes the value of rigorous social inquiry and evidence-based solutions.

If you or your institution are involved in research, policy engagement, or innovation in the social sciences, the Juan Bosch Prize 2026 presents an outstanding opportunity for international recognition. Preparing a strong nomination involves clear articulation of impact, evidence of influence, and a compelling case for how the nominee’s work advances knowledge and contributes to societal well-being.