Frankfurt, Germany – The European Paulskirche Prize for Democracy will be awarded for the first time in May 2026 at the Paulskirche in Frankfurt. The prize, endowed with 50,000 euros, aims to recognize and honor individuals, organizations, civic groups, and institutions that demonstrate exceptional commitment to defending freedom, the rule of law, and a united Europe. This news was announced on Friday 29 August, 2025 by Lord Mayor Mike Josef, City Council President Hilime Arslaner, and Mayor Nargess Eskandari-Grünberg at a press briefing held at the Paulskirche.
“Democracy needs role models – especially in times of growing challenges,” said Lord Mayor Mike Josef. “We hope that by awarding this prize, we can bring attention to the courageous and determined efforts of those who work towards a diverse and inclusive democracy.”
Nominations for the European Paulskirche Prize for Democracy will open on 1 September and will be accepted until 30 November through an online form available in German, English, and French at frankfurt.de/paulskirchenpreis.
The prize aims to commemorate the events of 1848/1849, when the first elected German parliament, the National Assembly, met at the Paulskirche and laid the foundation for democracy and the rule of law in Germany. The delegates at the time had rebelled against the principalities and fought for freedom, human rights, and equality for all. The fundamental rights adopted at the Paulskirche were later incorporated into the constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany.
A jury of 12 members, including Lord Mayor Mike Josef, City Council President Hilime Arslaner, and Mayor Nargess Eskandari-Grünberg, will select the prize winners. Other members of the jury include Ina Hartwig, Head of Culture and Science, Julia Klöckner, President of the German Federal Parliament, Astrid Wallmann, President of the Hessian State Parliament, and several other distinguished individuals from various fields such as sociology, peace and conflict research, music, literature, and law.
“We are honored to have such a diverse and accomplished jury who will help us select the most deserving recipients for this prestigious prize,” said Mayor Nargess Eskandari-Grünberg.
For more information and media inquiries, please contact the Press and Information Office of the City of Frankfurt at presse.info@stadt-frankfurt.de.
This news was distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/.