Deadline: 16 October 2023
The Southeast Asia Junction, in collaboration with the John Fitzgerald Kennedy (JFK) Foundation of Thailand, announces an essay competition to invite emerging writers and artists from countries in Southeast Asia to reflect on the future of their region and the eventual role of Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN.
SEA Junction, established under the Thai non-profit organization Foundation for Southeast Asia Studies (ForSEA), aims to foster understanding and appreciation of Southeast Asia in all its socio-cultural dimensions- from arts and lifestyles to economy and development.
Theme
- The submitted essays (both in writing or in visual format) should 1) reflect on recent developments of regional relevance in Southeast Asia 2) examine the role of ASEAN in addressing current and emerging issues and, most importantly 3) propose a vision for the future of Southeast Asia and attaining a genuine “community” with or without ASEAN. A critical examination is expected of achievements and challenges in regional developments and how they relate to ASEAN performance. Specific transnational issues could be examined so as to ground the presented arguments.
Award Information
- For each of the two categories (written essays and visual essays) the following prizes will be awarded, summing up to a total of six awards:
- First Prize: A cash reward of USD 750
- Second Prize: A cash reward of USD 500
- Third Prize: A cash reward of USD 250
- All essays that make the shortlist will be published on the website and distributed across the social media platforms.
- Please note that copyright of all the content submitted for this competition remains with the respective entrants, with the organizers having the licence to use the content for their activities and social media.
Essay Requirement
- Essays must be original and written in English.
- Written Essays:
- Submissions must fall within the range of 1,500 to 2,500 words (3-5 pages).
- Visual or art essays:
- Each artwork should be accompanied by a concise caption. Additionally, an essay description of approximately 500 to 1,000 words is required.
- For photography submissions, a minimum of 18 photos is required.
- For painting and digital art submissions, a minimum of 10 pieces is requested. However, the quantity can be adapted based on the art format and will be duly considered.
Eligibility Criteria
- Participation is open to emerging writers and artists from countries in Southeast Asia (including Timor Leste).
For more information, visit Southeast Asia Junction.
