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2026 Buddies for Peace Award

10/31/2026
A price of Bürgerstiftung Berlin
[Translate to English:] Eine Person hält eine Hand mit ausgestrecktem Zeige- und Mittelfinger als Friedenszeichen in die Luft. Im Hintergrund liegt Schnee.

[Translate to English:] Foto: Priscilla Du Preez, Unsplash

The Buddies for Peace Award from the Berlin Community Foundation honors Berlin-based projects that introduce children and young people between the ages of 6 and 18 to democratic and nonviolent conflict resolution. Schools, study groups, clubs, and organizations with school-based or extracurricular projects, among others, are eligible to apply. Applications will be accepted through October 31, 2026.

What is it about?
The award recognizes Berlin-based projects that raise awareness among children and young people about conflict and teach them ways to deal with differences in a respectful and nonviolent manner. The focus is on constructive conflict resolution and peaceful coexistence.

Who is it for?
Berlin schools, classes, grade levels, extracurricular clubs, and study groups, as well as associations and organizations with projects for children and young people between the ages of 6 and 18, are eligible to apply.

Why is this important?
The award-winning projects teach young people how to constructively address conflicts, question preconceptions, and take responsibility for their own behavior. Among other things, the initiative promotes moral courage, empathy, solidarity, and a democratic culture of debate.

Optional
The award is presented annually. It is supported by the Klaus and Lydia Riedel Family Fund under the umbrella of the Berlin Community Foundation.

Further Information

Target audience Schools; study groups; clubs; organizations; projects for children and youth ages 6 to 18
Nomination Process Self-nomination
Prize money Yes
Prize Amount 5,000 euros in total; in addition, each winning project receives a Buddy Bear
Application Deadline Applications due by October 31, 2026
Date
Title
Location
Description
May 31

NAJU (Naturschutzjugend im NABU)

In the nationwide “Erlebter Frühling” contest, children up to age 13 explore nature in their local area. Individual children, groups of children, school classes, and daycare groups are eligible to participate. Entries are judged based on various criteria, including creativity, relevance to the theme, and the children’s involvement. Award-winning entries win a nature adventure day.
Aug 16

Bundesministerium für Bildung, Familie, Senioren, Frauen und Jugend (BMBFSFJ)

For the first time, the German Community Award honors projects, initiatives, and organizations that combat loneliness and strengthen social cohesion. Eligible applicants include, among others, civil society initiatives, clubs, associations, as well as municipalities and public institutions. The award is presented in four categories and includes prize money.
Jul 31

Gesellschaft für Medienpädagogik (GMK)

The Dieter Baacke Prize recognizes media education projects that help children, young people, and families use media creatively and critically. Extracurricular projects, as well as collaborations between school-based and extracurricular institutions, are eligible to apply. The prize is awarded nationwide in six categories.
Mar 31

Bezirksamt Reinickendorf von Berlin

With the Dieter-Braunsdorf Medal, the Reinickendorf district honors individuals who volunteer to support sports in the district. The award is presented annually in bronze, silver, and gold. Starting in 2026, volunteers under the age of 27 will also be eligible for the award for the first time. Sports clubs and organizations in Reinickendorf can nominate individuals until March 31.

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