IFES sponsors this annual contest to illustrate the many ways people around the world demonstrate a sense of civic responsibility. The contest seeks photographs of individuals taking part in elections or other activities that demonstrate the values of democratic governance and civic engagement.

The competition is divided into two categories:

• The Public Category is open to photographers worldwide who are at least 18 years of age at the time of entry
• The IFES’ Choice Category is open only to current and former IFES employees, consultants and interns 

One winner and up to 10 finalists will be chosen in each category. The winner of each category will receive $600 (USD).

Previous competitions have drawn hundreds of images from professional photographers and talented amateurs from around the world. Outstanding entries are exhibited at IFES’ Washington, D.C., headquarters, displayed online at www.ifes.org and used in IFES publications such as the annual democracy-themed wall calendar.

Full contest details, rules and registration form are available at http://photocontest.ifes.org.

For samples of previous contest winners and submissions, visit IFES’ Flickr page here.