2009 CIPE International Essay Competition: Engaging Youth in Reform

The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) International Essay Competition 2009 has officially commenced. CIPE is a non-profit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and one of the four core institutes of the National Endowment for Democracy. CIPE believes that countries need to build market-oriented and democratic institutions simultaneously, as they are essentially two sides of the same coin.

This year’s theme is “Engaging Youth in Reform” gives students and young professionals aged 18-30 a chance to share their ideas about citizenship, youth leadership, and ways that yourcountry can create avenues for youth to participate in inthe political and economic spheres.

Three topic categories are available for writers to choose from:

-Citizenship in a Democratic Society

-Educational Reform and Employment Opportunities

-Entrepreneurship and Leadership

Three top essays from each category will receive an honorarium of $1000 and the essays will be published as Economic Reform Feature Service articles. Other essays of merit will be considered for publication as well. Special weight will be given to essays submitted by citizens of non-OECD countries.

Essays must be original and unpublished. Entries must be written in English and does not exceed 4000 words but more than 2000 words. Provide full contact information on the cover page, including citizenship and essay category. All essays must be submitted by March 1, 2009. For full details click here.