On 29 May 2026 the international jury composed of seven literary experts announced the winner of the Grand Prix and the two special mentions of the 2026 European Union Prize for Literature. Emerging authors from 14 countries were shortlisted back in February 2026.

These are the 2026 winners

Winner of the Grand Prix

Dora Kaprálová, Czechia: Mariborská hypnóza (Maribor Hypnosis)

Special mentions

Hélène Frédérick, France: Lézardes (Rivers of White)

Vladimir Vujović, Montenegro: Slobodni udarci (Free Kicks)

The winner of the Grand Prix will receive €10 000, as well as financial support for two translations of their work. The two special mention recipients will each receive €5 000 and support for one translation.

The other 11 shortlisted authors will also receive support for one translation. In addition, all shortlisted authors will benefit from promotion at major book fairs across Europe.

About the European Union Prize for Literature

The prize is an annual initiative of the Creative Europe programme. It started in 2009 to recognise the best European emerging authors and celebrate the linguistic diversity and excellence of literature in countries participating in the Creative Europe programme.