The first edition of the Simone Veil prize will take place in 2026, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission has announced recently.
The European Commission has said in a press release that the new annual award will spotlight how cultural heritage can serve as a catalyst for civic engagement and social cohesion, while also reflecting the important contribution of Jewish cultural heritage to Europe’s identity.
With the consortium now appointed, preparations for the first edition are underway, it says, adding that between 2026 and 2028, the consortium will manage up to three annual cycles of the prize. The first call for nominations is planned for 2026, inviting organisations and initiatives to showcase how culture and remembrance can reinforce cohesion and solidarity in Europe.
The Simone Veil prize will support a wide range of actions and organisations, from festivals to educational materials and digital archives, that bring heritage to life in ways that engage citizens and open space for reflection and participation.
The prize aims to turn heritage and places of memory into spaces for civic participation, education, and democratic engagement, by recognising projects that make heritage relevant for all generations.
It is named after Simone Veil, Holocaust survivor, first female President of the European Parliament and champion of human rights.