Universal Postal Union (UPU) International Letter-Writing Competition 2025 for Young People (Fully Funded to Dubai, UAE)

In 2025, the UPU (Universal Postal Union) is partnering with IMO (International Maritime Organization) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) for the 54th edition of the International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People. This collaboration unites UPU’s mission to foster communication through letters, IMO’s commitment to addressing the urgent need to protect our ocean and seas, as well as UNESCO’s dedication to advancing ocean science and education through initiatives such as the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 (Ocean Decade). The theme for this year is:

Imagine you are the ocean. Write a letter to someone explaining why and how they should take good care of you.

This year’s theme addresses the significance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and, specifically, SDG 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. Through collaboration with this year’s partners, the competition highlights the UPU’s mission to promote literacy and communication through letters while aligning with the commitment of the IMO and UNESCO to address the urgent need to safeguard marine ecosystems. This year’s theme invites young participants to give voice to the ocean, exploring its beauty, the challenges it faces, and our collective responsibility for preserving it.

By participating, young minds will be encouraged to reflect on their role in building a sustainable future, raising awareness of marine conservation and the interconnectedness of ecosystems worldwide.

Eligibility Criteria for UPU International Letter-Writing Competition 2025

1. Only young participants from 9 to 15 years may take part in the annual competition.

Competition Rules

1. Compositions must be in the form of a letter and contain the elements of a letter (heading, greeting, body, complimentary close, signature line and postscript (optional).
2. Entries must adhere strictly to the theme and not exceed 800 words in the original language.
3. Submitted letters must be accompanied by a cover letter, entry form,, and high-quality picture of the winner.

Benefits of UPU International Letter-Writing Competition 2025

1. The top three international prize-winners will receive a beautiful medal bearing their name or a certificate (honorable mentions).
2. If conditions permit, the UPU will arrange for the three prize-winners to attend a special awards ceremony in honour of their achievement. In 2025, this prestigious event is set to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the UAE, transport and accommodation will be provided for the three prize-winners and two accompanying adults per winner.
3. The runners-up and national winners are generally celebrated at ceremonies organized by their home countries on World Post Day – 9 October – the anniversary of the founding of the UPU. We invite all participating countries to join in recognizing and honouring their winners on this special occasion.

How to Apply

How the competition works:

1. Each country that decides to participate organizes its own national competition and selects a national winner.
2. Each country sends its first-prize letter to the UPU HQ in Berne, Switzerland, to then compete for the top prizes at the international level.
3. An international jury evaluates the letters and selects the top three winners and up to five special mentions.

If you are interested in entering the competition, they cordially invite you to consult the Participants Guide 2025 below and to contact your national postal operator for further guidance about participating.

1. Participants Guide 2025

If you are looking for inspiration to craft a compelling letter for this year's competition, dive into the resources below:

1. Toolkits: Explore practical guides and resources from The Ocean Agency to enhance your understanding of ocean conservation.
2. The 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy: Learn about the essential concepts about the ocean's influence on us and our impact on the ocean at UNESCO’s Ocean Literacy Portal.
3. The Ocean Decade: Learn about global efforts to protect our seas through The Ocean Decade initiatives and how it connects people to the ocean we all share.
4. Marine Environment: Explore IMO's initiatives to protect the marine environment, including preventing ship-based pollution and promoting sustainable shipping practices.
5. World Maritime Day 2025 Theme: "Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity"Watch the video here to discover the ocean's vital role in supporting life on earth and why it's crucial to protect it.

View details of Universal Postal Union International Letter-Writing Competition

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Application Link(s)

• Apply for UPU International Letter-Writing Competition 2025