The USAID Rule of Law Program is launching a graphic short story competition on the theme of Rule of Law. The competition is open for high school students (grades IX–XII) and university students from higher education institutions.

Purpose of the Competition:

1. To engage young people and raise awareness about the rule of law in Georgia.
2. To encourage the creation of stories that explore the significance of the rule of law and reflect on its necessity in shaping the country and the role of individuals in upholding it.

Contest Terms:

1. Participants must submit an original story written in Georgian.
2. The story should address rule of law topics [e.g. children’s rights, women’s rights, equality, fair trial, the right to education, etc.].
3. The narrative should connect the theme to relevant issues in Georgia, helping readers understand the importance of the topic.
4. Stories must be created specifically for this competition and should not have been published elsewhere.
5. Participants may submit multiple stories, provided each refers to a different issue.
6. Each story should not exceed 2,500 words and must be submitted as a single-spaced MS Word document.

Stories will be evaluated by the following criteria:

1. Relevance to the competition’s purpose and theme.
2. Quality of writing and style.
3. Creativity and originality.
4. Thoughtful presentation of rule of law issues.

Prizes:

1. The top three winners will receive gift vouchers: 1st place: 1000 GEL; 2nd place: 700 GEL; 3rd place: 500 GEL.
2. USAID Rule of Law Program will provide graphic design support for the publication and presentation of the winning stories.
3. The winning stories will also be published and shared on the USAID Rule of Law Program’s website and social media platforms.

How to participate:

1. Register by November 8, 2024, at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v_WctGz5OTH_AgCqArd1j_xCUEmNiERGvYT0RX3t804/edit
2. Participants may also attend a one-day masterclass on creative writing, supported by the USAID Rule of Law Program and led by well known writer and/or content creater. 
3. Submit your final story by November 30, 2024, via email to mmakharashvili@ewmi.org  (For more information on the competition, contact the same email address).
4. Be sure to include your full name and contact number and label the email subject as “Story Competition.”

By submitting a story, participants confirm they hold the copyright and that the story is their original work.