The WIN WIN Gothenburg Sustainability Award, one of the world’s most prestigious sustainability prizes, has officially opened nominations for its 2026 edition, which will focus on the theme “Gender-Equal Societies.” This year’s award recognizes the individuals and organizations transforming equality into action — from securing women’s rights and access to resources, to enabling women’s leadership in climate action, education, and community development.

Since its inception in 2000, the WIN WIN Award has celebrated outstanding contributions to global sustainability. Past laureates include influential leaders such as Gro Harlem Brundtland, Al Gore, and Kofi Annan, whose pioneering efforts have shaped international movements for peace, democracy, and sustainable development.

A Global Call for Change-Makers

As the world faces the dual crises of climate change and social inequality, gender equality has emerged as one of the most powerful drivers of resilience, peace, and progress. Around the globe, empowering women and ensuring equal participation in decision-making processes have proven to foster stronger economies, more stable democracies, and more sustainable communities.

However, recent years have seen a worrying backlash against women’s rights, with progress in many regions slowing or even reversing. The 2026 WIN WIN Award seeks to counter this trend by recognizing and amplifying those who are building inclusive societies where equality serves as both a moral imperative and a practical strategy for sustainable development.

Nominations are now open for both the main WIN WIN Award and the WIN WIN Youth Award:

• WIN WIN Award – 1,000,000 SEK
  This prize honors an individual or organization creating systemic change and advancing women’s rights globally. The award celebrates those who enable women to participate and lead on equal terms — economically, politically, and socially.

• WIN WIN Youth Award – 100,000 SEK
  This category recognizes young changemakers aged 13 to 29 who promote inclusion, equality, and empowerment within their local communities. It highlights the next generation of leaders driving global transformation from the ground up.

Nominations are open until 11 January 2026. Learn more and submit your nomination at winwinaward.org.

Why Gender Equality Matters

Gender equality is more than representation; it is about creating real, structural opportunities for women and girls to thrive. It encompasses equal access to education, economic participation, land ownership, and political voice — as well as the right to live free from violence and discrimination.

In many parts of the world, gender equality is a catalyst for achieving other development goals. When women have access to microfinance or own land, entire communities benefit through improved education, health, and resilience

Click here for more opportunities.