The International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People (ILWC) is an annual global competition organized by the Universal Postal Union (UPU), a United Nations specialized agency, since 1971. Now in its 55th edition, the competition invites students aged 9–15 from UPU member countries around the world to write a letter on a theme announced each year. The 2026 competition partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNESCO.
How it works:
Each year, the UPU announces a theme and invites countries to organize national-level competitions through their postal operators, often in partnership with educational authorities. Students submit letters to their national Post, which selects a national winner. National winners are submitted to the UPU International Bureau in Bern, Switzerland by May 5. An international jury evaluates the letters and selects overall winners and candidates that merit a special mention.
2026 theme: Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world. (Deadline closed.)
Prize:
The overall top winner receives a fully funded trip to a special awards ceremony at the UPU International Bureau in Bern, Switzerland, including transport and accommodation for the winner and one accompanying adult. Candidates that merit a special mention are also announced.
Purpose:
The competition develops students' composition skills, critical thinking, and ability to express ideas clearly. It fosters an appreciation for letter writing as a form of human connection, and raises awareness of the role postal services play in society.