Oriented on making people closer

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has announced the call for entries for the international photo contest “The Silk Roads Through the Eyes of Youth.” Young people aged 14 to 25 from around the world, including Turkmenistan, are invited to participate. The deadline for submissions is July 20, 2025.

The theme for the 2025 contest is “Women: Guardians of the Silk Roads’ Heritage.” Participants are encouraged to submit photographs that highlight the contributions of women in preserving cultural heritage.

The focus is on women engaged in traditional crafts such as weaving, embroidery, ceramics, and pottery, as well as traditional sports and games, music, dance, and oral folklore. Submissions showcasing women's involvement in culinary traditions passed down through generations, as well as in education, literature, arts, trade, and scientific activities, are also welcome.

Special attention will be given to photographs depicting women organizing cultural events, festivals, and promoting intercultural dialogue. Portraits that capture the cultural identity, strength of spirit, and wisdom of women along the Silk Roads are among the preferred subjects.

Winners of the top three places in each of the two age categories (14–17 and 18–25) will receive professional cameras. Around 60 selected photographs will be featured in the official “The Silk Roads Through the Eyes of Youth” photo album and may be included in international exhibitions.

To participate, applicants must register on the contest platform and upload between one and twenty photographs via their personal account.

All inquiries can be directed to: silkroadsphotocontest@unesco.org

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Photo: turkmenmetbugat.gov.tm