Open Call for Investigative Journalism and Research on Media Freedom and Journalists’ Safety in Albania
February 24, 2026
The Society of Publishers in Asia (SoPA) has officially opened submissions for the 2026 SoPA Awards for Editorial Excellence, one of the most prestigious journalism competitions in the Asia-Pacific region. Now in its 28th year, the awards recognise outstanding reporting and editorial work done by both established media organisations and smaller independent outlets across multiple languages and formats.
What It Is: The SoPA Awards are widely regarded as the Asia-Pacific equivalent of globally recognised journalism prizes, celebrating high-quality reporting, investigative work, photography, commentary, and digital innovation. Entries are accepted in 21 categories spanning English, Chinese, and Bahasa Indonesia journalism, reflecting the diversity of media practice in the region.
Who Can Enter: Submissions are open to news organisations and journalists throughout Asia-Pacific, including international media, regional outlets, and local publications. Special entry subsidies are available for first-time participants and smaller newsrooms with no more than 20 full-time staff — eligible groups may receive support of up to HKD 200 per entry (approximately ₱1,480) to encourage wider participation.
Judging and Governance: A newly appointed five-member Awards Administration Panel will oversee the judging process for 2026, led by veteran journalist Chris Yeung and supported by international media professionals, including Jeffrey Timmermans, Edith Terry, Heng Yu Chien, and Harry Surjadi. More than 100 judges — journalists and academics from around the world — will review entries and help determine finalists and winners.
How to Enter and Deadline: Submissions are being accepted through SoPA’s official entry portal. The deadline for entries is 3 p.m. Hong Kong time on 26 February 2026. Following entry closure, finalists will be announced in May 2026, with winners expected to be revealed in June 2026 at the awards ceremony.
Why It Matters: The SoPA Awards not only honour journalistic excellence but also help promote editorial standards, innovation, and press freedom across the Asia-Pacific journalism community. Previous award recipients have included high-impact investigations and reporting projects that contributed to public discourse and accountability, reinforcing the event’s role as a key platform for media recognition in the region.
Reference –
https://tribune.net.ph/2026/02/22/asia-journalism-awards-open-for-2026-entries