NEW YORK (AP) — The Association of American Publishers presented its annual international award. International Freedom to Publish Award Russian independent publishing house Freedom Letters and its founder Georgy Urushadze — for fighting against censorship and repression.
A former organizer of literary awards in Moscow, Urushadze left Russia in 2022 after speaking out against the invasion of Ukraine and being declared a “foreign agent.”
“Giorgi Urushadze made enormous sacrifices in the name of freedom of expression, showed exceptional tenacity in establishing a successful publishing house in exile, and inspired people around the world with his dedication to authors who were being silenced,” said Association President Maria A. Pallante.
Freedom Letters, supported by dozens of volunteers, publishes books in Ukraine, Latvia, Georgia, and other countries. Its portfolio includes hundreds of works in Russian and Ukrainian written by anti-war authors and opponents of Vladimir Putin. Among its notable publications are the collection Last But Not Final Words (the last words of Russian political prisoners) and a graphic novel by Olga Grebennik. The War Diary о войне в Украине.
Freedom Letters Publishing House is banned in Russia, and some of its authors have been prosecuted. Despite this, Urushadze notes that the books can still be purchased in Russia through online platforms.
“This award sends a message of hope to all who believe, as we do, that every book that finds a reader is proof that stories can overcome borders, prohibitions, and fear,” said Urushadze.
Previously, the award was given to a Venezuelan publishing house Editorial Dahbar and South African NB Publishers.
What Are the Objectives of the Award?
The primary goal of the Award is to support authors and promote Russian-language literature worldwide. We welcome all who write and read in Russian, regardless of citizenship or place of residence. We aim to foster a Russian-language culture free from political and imperial influences.
How Is the Award Process Conducted?
The Prize is awarded annually. The Jury holds a vote in which each member selects between one and three works. The author whose work receives the highest number of votes becomes the winner.
What Awards Are Provided?
The Prize winner receives a grant for the translation of their work into English, French, and German.
When Does the Submission Period for the Competition Start and End?
Submissions for the third season of the prize will open on July 15, 2026, and close on October 15, 2026.
When will the list of finalists and winners be announced?
On January 20, 2027, the Council of Experts will announce the shortlist. The Independent Jury will announce the winner on May 25, 2027.
What are the conditions for the nomination of a book for the award
Works published in 2025 are eligible for the third season of the competition. Eligible works (novels, novellas, short story and essay collections, documentary prose) may have been published either as standalone editions or in literary magazines. Nominations may be submitted by publishing houses and magazine editorial boards, as well as by the authors themselves or third parties (with the author's consent and written confirmation). Texts must be submitted for consideration in electronic format. The DAR Prize is open to all authors. Given the prize's main goals — promoting contemporary Russian-language literature outside of Russia — and the nature of the award itself (a translation grant), priority will be given to authors whose works have not previously been translated into English, French, or German.
