Universal Postal Union (UPU) - 2026 International letter-writing competition for young people

2026 competition

This year, the UPU is partnering with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to inspire young writers worldwide to reflect on why human connection matters in an increasingly digital world and to share these reflections in a letter to a friend.

Since 1971, the UPU has encouraged young writers aged 9-15 years (inclusive) to write letters on a given theme for a chance to win exciting prizes. The competition is an excellent way of making young people aware of the important role that postal services play in our societies. It develops their composition skills and ability to express their thoughts clearly. It also fosters enjoyment of letter writing and helps to strengthen the bonds of international friendship.

Every year, the UPU’s secretariat – the International Bureau – chooses and publicizes a theme. Participating countries then organize the competition at national level through the Post, often with the support of the educational authorities and media, presenting one winning letter to the international jury convened by the UPU. Entries must reach the UPU International Bureau no later than 5 May each year. The jury then evaluates the letters and selects the overall winners and candidates that merit a special mention.

If conditions permit, the UPU will sponsor and arrange for the top winner to attend a special awards ceremony in honour of their achievement, including transport and accommodation for the winner and one accompanying adult. In 2026, this prestigious event is set to take place at the UPU International Bureau.

Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world.

In a world shaped by digital technologies – from social media and messaging apps to artificial intelligence and robotics – the way people connect with one another is changing. While digital tools can bring people together, they can also deepen feelings of loneliness and social isolation when meaningful human connection is missing.

This year’s theme builds on WHO-led global evidence showing that social connection is a vital part of overall health and well-being, as well as physical and mental health. Meaningful relationships help reduce loneliness, strengthen empathy, support inclusion and contribute to healthier, more resilient individuals and communities.

From a postal perspective, letters remain a powerful symbol and tool of human connection. Writing a letter takes time, care and intention. It allows people to express emotions, share experiences and build relationships in a deeply personal way that transcends distance, screens and time zones. Every letter also carries the human touch of postal workers, whose role in delivering messages helps sustain trust, solidarity and connection between individuals and communities around the world.

By writing a letter to a friend, children are encouraged to reflect on their own relationships and to explore how simple acts of communication can foster empathy, kindness and understanding. Through their words, young people can share ideas on how to nurture friendships, stay connected and strengthen human bonds – both offline and online – in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

The UPU

Established in 1874, the Universal Postal Union (UPU), with its headquarters in the Swiss capital Berne, is the second oldest international organization worldwide.

With its 192 member countries, the UPU is the primary forum for cooperation between postal sector players. It  helps to ensure a truly universal network of up-to-date products and services.

In this way, the organization fulfils an advisory, mediating and liaison role, and provides technical assistance where needed. It sets the rules for international mail exchanges and makes recommendations to stimulate growth in mail, parcel and financial services volumes and improve quality of service for customers.