Prix CIRCOM Regional 2026 Entry Pack
RULES OF ENTRY
Please read these rules very carefully because it is important that all entries conform fully. A breach of any of the rules may mean disqualification.
RULE 1. Entries can be accepted only from member stations of CIRCOM Regional. Programmes or other content made by independent producers can be considered only if entered by CIRCOM Regional member stations.
RULE 2. All entries, when submitted, will need confirmation by the CIRCOM representative (National Co-ordinator) appointed for each country making the entry. If there is no such representative, approval will be considered by the President of the Prix CIRCOM.
RULE 3. Each regional station may enter ONCE in each of the following categories:
(1) Diversity in Society (2) Documentary (3) Drama (4) Entertainment (5) Investigative Journalism (6) Most Original and Innovative (7) Music and Arts (8) News Programme (9) Social Media/Online Storytelling.
Each regional station may enter TWICE in each of the following categories:
(10) News Report (11) Video Journalism (12) Young Onscreen Talent.
Please note that in the News Programme category you should enter your News Programme ONLY of Friday, 30 January 2026. A News Programme of any other day is not acceptable.
A total of 15 entries may therefore be accepted from any one regional station across all categories.
RULE 4. No single programme can be entered in more than one category, although different editions in a series may be entered in different categories. It is also possible for relevant parts of programmes entered in one category to appear also in the personal skill categories of Young Onscreen Talent and Video Journalist and for a News Report to appear also within a News Programme entry.
RULE 5. Programmes (or items) must have been broadcast, delivered or made available online for the first time between Saturday, 15 March 2025 and the closing date for entries, Friday 20 March 2026.
RULE 6. Programmes (or items) must be submitted as first broadcast or otherwise made available, except for additions required by Rule 8.
RULE 7. Each entry must be accompanied by explanations in English or in French (no more than 250 words) to help the judges understand more about the reasons for making the programme or entry, the qualities of the programme or entry, the impact the programme or entry has had on the audience, and any other background factors which support the programme or entry as being worthy of consideration.
Please note that, to keep entry costs down for stations, it is acceptable that translations into English or French can be based on Google Translate or similar online based systems.
RULE 8. Each entry, including those in English, must have subtitling in English throughout sufficient for the judges to be able to understand what is being said. Subtitling need not be of full broadcast quality, nor time code accurate. Again, please note it is acceptable that translations into English for subtitling can be based on Google Translate or similar online systems. Entries without subtitles throughout will be disqualified.
RULE 9. Entry forms, with outline and support materials, must be delivered by the entry closing date of Friday, 20 March 2026. Entry forms are submitted through the Prix CIRCOM online entry form.
RULE 10. Video entries must be uploaded in codec H.264 by Friday 20 March 2026. Confirmation will be given that a video has been received complete.
RULE 11. The cash award to any category winner will be paid ONLY if broadcast or delivery by CIRCOM member stations of the winning entry is permitted by the entrant with zero payment for rights.
If all rights cannot be made available freely, the category winner’s award is restricted to trophy, certificate and attendance at the CIRCOM Annual Conference and Gala, as set out below. No cash award will be made.
The winning station agrees that should it fail to inform CIRCOM correctly, or any member station wishing to transmit or deliver the winning entry, of any restriction on rights usage, it will be liable for any further rights payments incurred or legal actions which may follow in relation to such misuse of rights.
In the case of the Grand Prix, the cash award can be made irrespective of rights restrictions.
RULE 12. No entry will be awarded Commended status unless it is guaranteed by the entrant to be free of all rights for CIRCOM member stations to transmit or deliver.
The Commended station agrees that should it fail to inform correctly CIRCOM or any member station wishing to transmit or deliver the Commended entry of any restriction on rights usage, it will be liable for any further rights payments or legal actions which may follow in relation to such misuse of rights.
RULE 13. The period within which CIRCOM member stations can transmit or deliver a winning or a commended entry freely is restricted to 1 June 2026 to 31 August 2027 inclusive. Any transmission or delivery outside this period is for bilateral negotiation between stations.
RULE 14. Winners (with rights cleared) and Commended entries may be offered by CIRCOM Regional members on their own streaming platforms for a period of up to 21 days, starting from the date agreed with the submitting station. This applies whether or not the programme has been previously broadcast linearly. This permission does not extend to external social media platforms (e.g., YouTube, Facebook, TikTok) unless separately authorised by the rights holder.
RULE 15. An international version, without subtitling, of any category Winner or Commended must be delivered to the CIRCOM Secretariat if and when requested, along with a script and music cue sheet, should a CIRCOM member station wish to utilise broadcast or delivery rights where available.
RULE 16. Entrants agree in advance to promotional non-broadcast showcase screenings organised on behalf of Prix CIRCOM Regional and for other non-broadcast use, including online delivery, for the promotion of CIRCOM and the Prix. This requirement includes entries with restricted broadcast and delivery rights.
RULE 17. Entrants agree in advance that brief excerpts from programmes may be freely broadcast or delivered online as part of regional news reports or promotional items about Prix CIRCOM Regional and in any programme on the award ceremony or about the awards. This requirement includes entries with restricted broadcast and delivery rights.
RULE 18. Winning and commended entrants must provide a copy of the script in English or French and in the language of origin when requested. This is essential for member stations wishing to broadcast winning or commended entries. The script is not a requirement for other entries.
RULE 19. Any costs of mail dispatch, customs, insurance, where incurred, will be paid by the entrant.
RULE 20. Programme materials provided for the Prix judging will be retained by CIRCOM in its archives.
RULE 21. Any cash or trophy or other benefit presented as an award will be to the entering CIRCOM Regional member station. It will be for that member station to decide who may represent the station at the CIRCOM Annual Conference and Gala, who should collect the trophy at any award presentation, decide who may keep the trophy, and how any cash award may be used.
RULE 22. In the case of the internship for the winner of the Young Onscreen Talent category, monies will be retained by CIRCOM to ensure that they are used solely for the purpose of the internship and to ease administrative liaison with the host broadcasters. If, for any reason, it proves impossible to arrange an internship, an agreement will be reached between CIRCOM Regional, the sponsor (TVR) and the winner on how benefits can accrue to the winning entry.
RULE 23. Where the entry is from one station, but the programme is a co-produced programme, the submitting station is required to inform any partner stations or independent production company who have contributed to that programme. The award will be made to the submitting station and it will be for the submitting station to decide how any prize money is allocated.
RULE 24. Where more than one co-producing stations submit the same programme, any award will be joint. It will be for the winning stations to decide how any prize money is allocated. In the case of disagreement, the decision of CIRCOM will be final.
RULE 25. Co-producing stations may submit different programmes from the same series.
RULE 26. A member station which is also a sponsor is permitted to win its own sponsorship money.
RULE 27. It is a requirement that every winning station will ensure that a relevant representative attends the gala presentation to accept the trophy onstage, takes part in any workshop on the Prix, discusses their entry and takes part in any other promotion of the Prix. Failure to do so may result in the withholding of trophy, prize money (where applicable) and subsistence and travel expenses.
RULE 28. It is a requirement that every commended station will ensure that a relevant representative attends the gala presentation, takes part in any workshop on the Prix, discusses their entry and takes part in any other promotion of the Prix. Failure to do so may result in the withholding of subsistence and travel expenses.
RULE 29. The English language version of the Rules of Entry takes precedence over any other version.
RULE 30. In any dispute, the decision of the President of the Prix CIRCOM, Mojca Recek, will be considered final and binding on all entrants. Any significant dispute will be reported to the Executive Committee of CIRCOM Regional.
HOW TO ENTER YOUR VIDEO
The video is to be submitted through the Prix CIRCOM online entry form. You will receive detailed instructions by email when you submit your entry form.
The maximum size of file which can be accepted is 10GB - remember this is a viewing, not a broadcast copy, and the highest broadcast quality is unnecessary.
The required codec is H.264. No other codec can be accepted.
When you upload, you need to identify your video with its unique entry number, category, title and your station. Failure to do this wastes much time and can result in your entry being lost and not judged. Please remember we usually deal with more than 200 entries in a very short period.
Video entries will be checked daily by Tonja Stojanac of the CIRCOM Secretariat. Each entry will receive a response from Tonja stating whether all is in order or whether there is anything missing, such as subtitles.
If there is some fault, you will be advised to upload again. This can only happen if you label and identify your entry properly, so please remember how important this is.
It is very important that you do NOT leave entry until the last few days. If you do, there could be a bottleneck of video traffic delaying your entry beyond the deadline of Friday, 20 March 2026. Enter early!
RESTRICTED/RESERVED RIGHTS AND CIRCULATION OF ENTRIES
There are only two restrictions:
1. No cash award will be made to any winning entry for which rights cannot be wholly cleared. The cash value of the programme entry is assumed to have been exploited by the sale of rights already.
2. Every Commended entry needs to be free of rights. This allows the selection of the Commended to focus on content which has not been fully commercially exploited – and probably with larger budgets and by larger stations.
However, CIRCOM still wishes to encourage the circulation of the best programmes and content - and not only winners and commended - among its member stations to promote the quality of PSM production, to allow regional audiences to learn from other regions in Europe, and to help less well funded regions enhance their schedule and their service to their community.
All entrants must, therefore, make clear the status of the rights of their entries on the online entry form:
[ ] YES THIS ENTRY IS AVAILABLE FREE OF RIGHTS AND ALL OTHER COSTS TO CIRCOM MEMBER STATIONS, JUNE 2026-END AUGUST 2027
[ ] YES THIS ENTRY IS AVAILABLE TO CIRCOM MEMBER STATIONS, JUNE 2026-END AUGUST 2027, BUT SUBJECT TO REIMBURSEMENT OF LIMITED BUT UNAVOIDABLE FEES AS MAY BE AGREED BILATERALLY
[ ] NO THIS ENTRY CANNOT BE MADE AVAILABLE AS RIGHTS ARE RESERVED
Please mark the box so your intention is clear. Thank you.
Stations choosing to broadcast any entry are strongly advised to assure themselves that they do, indeed, have the appropriate rights permissions in writing from the provider and rights owners before broadcast. Mistakes can be costly and CIRCOM accepts no liability.
Legal requirements vary from territory to territory. It would be unwise to rely wholly on verbal or unwarranted assurances given in good faith by providers.
Where programmes can be made available, there may still be some limited fees to pay for rights, international copies to be created, script production or administrative overheads. These will be payable by the receiving and transmitting station unless otherwise bilaterally agreed. Also, it will be for the receiving station to organise and pay for delivery of the programming.
The CIRCOM Secretariat holds details of entrants and will put you in touch but will not organise the delivery or monitor your bilateral agreement or be held responsible for breaches of rights or breaches of agreement in the case of a dispute.
SUBTITLING AND TRANSLATION
CIRCOM Regional accepts that the costs of translation and subtitling may in the past have limited the number of entries stations can make. We want to reduce entry costs to a minimum but still need to be able to judge programmes effectively.
The purpose of the subtitling into the working language of English is so that international judges can understand what the programme is about. To achieve this level of understanding it is not necessary to have a translation in faultless English prose. A rough translation is good enough.
The quality of subtitling does not need to match broadcast standard with time-coded accuracy: it is not for viewers at home to see, only judges. It allows the judges to follow the programme without keeping one eye on a written script and avoids asking all entrants to provide scripts, with all the associated costs.
The cost of subtitling was once a barrier to entry. It still will be if entrants are forced to add unnecessary broadcast standard subtitles at broadcast quality prices or are forced to add subtitles at in-house rates designed for broadcast not for offline viewing only.
The Prix can do nothing about such domestic agreements but there are many online subtitling systems cheap or even free for “do-it-yourself” subtitling to the necessary standard for the Prix.
THE AWARDS: WHAT YOU CAN WIN
Grand Prix
2000 euros cash (in addition to category prize)
Certificate verifying success
Trophy
This award, including cash, is open to every entrant, irrespective of rights restrictions to content.
The winner of the Grand Prix will be announced at a gala award ceremony at the CIRCOM Annual Conference in Tampere, 21 May 2026, an event hosted by Yle, the public service broadcaster in Finland.
Category Awards: Winners of all categories except Young Onscreen Talent
Trophy.
Certificates verifying success.
1000 euros cash – provided winning content is guaranteed available to CIRCOM member stations wholly free of rights or additional costs.
Invitations to attend the awards Gala.
Travel (economy class) to the CIRCOM Conference and Gala and up to two nights’ accommodation for two representatives of the winning station entry (subject to a cap of 2000 euros).
It is expected that one of the two representatives will be a younger professional who will gain particular benefit from the Conference sessions and networking.
Category Award: Winner Young Onscreen Talent
Trophy.
No direct cash award but a contribution of up to 2000 euros is made towards a working visit by the winner to a CIRCOM member station and which CIRCOM will use all reasonable efforts to provide.
Certificate verifying success.
Invitations to attend the awards Gala.
Travel (economy class) to the CIRCOM Conference and Gala and up to two nights’ accommodation for two representatives of the winning station entry (subject to a cap of 2000 euros)
It is expected that one of the two representatives will be a younger professional who will gain particular benefit from the Conference sessions and networking.
Category Awards: Commended in all categories except Young Onscreen Talent
Certificates verifying success.
Invitations to attend the awards Gala.
Travel (economy class) to the CIRCOM Conference and Gala and up to two nights’ accommodation for one representative of the winning station entry (subject to a cap of 1000 euros).
There is no Commended entry in the category Young Onscreen Talent.
Announcement of the category winners and commended will normally be made in the week following the conclusion of the judging, once all jury verdicts have been confirmed by the President of the Prix.
GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND REGIONAL RELEVANCE
The purpose of these awards is to showcase the exceptional quality of creative video production and content delivery produced in and by the regions and small states of Europe.
Regional relevance is a key consideration across all categories, even when programmes or content are not broadcast exclusively within the region where they were made.
For the purposes of the Prix, regional relevance includes:
• Content created in a region for a regional audience, or
• Content created in a region but intended primarily for national network or international audiences, or
• Content that explores issues, stories, or ways of life specific to a particular region, regardless of where it is ultimately broadcast or published.
Entrants should note that, in a competition dedicated to regional and small-nation production, judges are expected to consider this principle carefully when evaluating every entry.
CHECKING CRITERIA AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Entrants must ensure that they have read both the general criteria and the specific category requirements. Please double-check that your programme or content truly fits the category you have selected. Submissions entered in the wrong category may be disqualified or may not be judged fairly against the intended criteria.
All required supporting information must be provided.
Entrants should ensure that the online Entry Form is completed fully and that the submission has been formally accepted. All entries must then be confirmed by the CIRCOM Regional National Co-ordinator for the country of the submitting station or, where no coordinator is assigned, by the President of the Prix.
JUDGING PRIORITIES
Across all categories, judges will look for:
• High professional standards
• Creative originality
• Effective and imaginative use of modern delivery platforms
In categories with a journalistic dimension, judges will also look for:
• Strong editorial judgment
• Quality journalism
• Clear evidence of “agenda setting” driven by a bottom-up, public-service-oriented approach
Please note that judges are not required to move entries into a different category if they feel a submission has been entered incorrectly.
“COMMENDED” RECOGNITION
A Commended entry is one that the judges and the President of the Prix feel demonstrates exceptional merit and stands out among the submissions. This distinction may reflect:
• Remarkable production circumstances
• Exceptional creativity
• Outstanding technical or artistic achievement
• Memorable characters or storytelling
• Or any other distinguishing quality
The Chair of the Judges will explain the reasons for each Commended recognition in the official category report.
AWARD CRITERIA: BY CATEGORY
GRAND PRIX OF CIRCOM REGIONAL
Sponsored by TVP Poland
No direct entries are accepted for this award. The winner will be selected by the judges, led by the Chair of the Judges, from the winning entries in the programme genre categories. It is, in effect, The Best of The Best.
DIVERSITY IN SOCIETY
Sponsored by France Télévisions
OVERVIEW
This award recognises factual programmes and reports that highlight the richness and complexity of Europe’s multicultural societies.
It celebrates the role of public service media in promoting inclusion, understanding and respect between different communities. Entries should explore issues affecting minority groups in a thoughtful, balanced and informed way, encouraging dialogue and empathy across society.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Relevant and meaningful content – programmes that address contemporary issues affecting minorities and underrepresented groups.
• Insight and understanding – storytelling that helps audiences grasp the causes of social divisions and demonstrates paths towards reconciliation and mutual respect.
• Inclusive perspective – programmes may be made by minority-led teams or general station staff, but preference will be given to those aimed at a broad audience, encouraging understanding between groups.
• Breadth of diversity – topics may include (but are not limited to) issues of culture, ethnicity, race, colour, language, disability, age, gender identity or sexual orientation.
Note: Niche interest groups (for example, supporters of a local sports team or enthusiasts of a musical genre) do not fall within the definition of “diversity” for this category.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Context – the purpose and background of the programme or report.
• Outcomes – any follow-up, measurable impact, or response achieved after broadcast.
• Production details – whether the programme was made by a minority production unit or general production staff, and whether it targeted a specific or general audience.
ELIGIBILITY
• Open to factual programmes or reports that focus on diversity and inclusion in society.
• Entries may come from any regional, national, or international public service broadcaster.
• Programmes should primarily be produced for television or online video distribution.
DOCUMENTARY
Sponsored by RTÉ Ireland
OVERVIEW
This category celebrates outstanding documentary storytelling on a single subject. Entries should capture real-life stories or issues with depth, authenticity, and creativity.
While topics do not have to be regional, preference will be given to documentaries that explore themes of particular relevance to a specific region, even within a national or international context.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Strong narrative – a clear, engaging storyline that holds the viewer’s attention throughout.
• Professional execution – excellence in direction, research, filming, and editing.
• Distinct perspective – documentaries that offer a fresh angle, personal viewpoint, or original insight into the subject.
• Creativity and innovation – imaginative storytelling, new techniques, and strong artistic or cinematographic qualities.
• Emotional and intellectual impact – the ability to inform, challenge, and move the audience.
Note: Entries with a primary investigative focus may be more suited to the Investigative Journalism category.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Context – the background, purpose, and motivation behind the documentary.
• Production details – whether the film was part of a series or a stand-alone work.
• Approach – details on creative methods, filming style, or special techniques used.
• Outcomes – audience response, impact, or any follow-up resulting from the broadcast.
ELIGIBILITY
• Entries must be single-subject, self-contained documentaries primarily filmed on location.
• Only one episode may be submitted if the documentary forms part of a series.
• Multi-topic programmes or those mixing studio and location content should be entered under other categories.
Documentary-style programmes may also be eligible for other Prix CIRCOM categories such as Diversity in Society, Most Original and Innovative, Music and Arts, or Investigative Journalism.
DRAMA
Sponsored by RTP Portugal and CSAG Galicia, Spain
OVERVIEW
Drama is one of the most powerful ways to showcase and explore regional identity – its culture, history, social issues and people. Drama can reveal truths and emotions which go beyond non-fiction, offering audiences a fresh and deeper understanding of a region.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Strong regional character – authentic settings, relevant regional themes, use of regional language or accents.
• Outstanding storytelling – compelling scripts, character development, believable performances with high quality acting.
• High production values – excellent direction, cinematography, lighting, set design, costumes, sound, and editing.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Commissioning context – was the entry made for regional, national or international audiences?
• Funding – how were the costs paid? Was it only the entering broadcaster? Was it a co-production and if so who were the co-producers or partners? Was it commissioned from an independent producer – if so, which?
• Budget – please give an idea of the total budget and cost per hour.
• Series or one-off? – if this is a single episode from a serial or a series, please add information (and perhaps video excerpts or trailers) so judges have a better idea of the context.
• Origin – is this an original storyline or is it based on a published book or a true story? If so, what is the core source?
ELIGIBILITY
• Only enter dramas made primarily for television or video distribution.
• Feature films made in the first instance for theatrical release will not be eligible.
ENTERTAINMENT
Sponsored by 3Cat Catalonia, Spain.
OVERVIEW
Entertainment content should lift the spirit and bring pleasure to viewers and users. It can have as much, though different, impact as news, facts and information. Entertainment can range from “shiny floor” song and dance shows to quiz shows, from comedy to competitions, pet shows to cookery.
If the intention is to dazzle, judges will want to enjoy the glamour. If the intention is to make you laugh, the judges will want to share the joke and smile.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Upbeat mood – the ability to make viewers/users relax and enjoy and perhaps laugh also.
• Formats – how well the format engages viewers/users and aims, above all, to give pleasure. Extra value will accrue if the format is “home grown”.
• High quality production skills – whether multi-camera studio-based and live or single camera edited, judges will want to see evidence of good camerawork, sound, and – where appropriate – sets, lighting and graphics.
• High presentation skills – how well do the presenters set the mood, engage with the audience/users, and add charisma to the content?
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Format – Is this the entrant’s own format in which it holds all the rights or is it a version of someone else’s format?
• Audience – Is the show made primarily for regional users and viewers or is it aimed a national (or even international) audience?
• Partners – is the show made by the entrant or is it commissioned or is there a production or financial partner?
• Success – how well did the entry succeed in reaching and satisfying its audience?
• Fact and fun – much entertainment content can include “facts” – for example topical quiz shows, pet shows, cookery. This is acceptable but it will be the entertainment value which is judged.
ELIGIBILITY
• Content more strictly focussed on Music and Arts should be entered in that category rather than in Entertainment
INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
Sponsored by the Council of Europe
OVERVIEW
This award honours outstanding regional journalism that uncovers the truth, exposes wrongdoing, and brings important issues to light.
It celebrates the courage, persistence, and integrity of journalists who go beyond the headlines to reveal what lies behind daily news stories or what others may seek to conceal.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Depth of investigation – journalism that digs deeper than standard news coverage to uncover new facts, perspectives, or injustices.
• Significance of story – investigations that reveal issues of genuine public importance and stimulate meaningful debate.
• Courage and integrity – work demonstrating persistence, fairness, and a commitment to truth, often under challenging conditions.
• Regional relevance – while stories may have national or international scope, preference will be given to those with a clear regional impact or resonance.
• Public service value – investigations that contribute to transparency, accountability, and better understanding within society.
All subjects of investigative work are welcome, but entrants might also usefully bear in mind the objectives of the Council of Europe:
- The protection of human rights, pluralist democracy and the rule of law.
- The fight against corruption and money laundering.
- The promotion of awareness of and encouragement of Europe’s cultural identity and diversity.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Background – details on the origin of the story, motivation, and context of the investigation.
• Process – how the investigation was carried out, including any challenges, risks, or obstacles faced.
• Impact – information on outcomes such as public response, policy change, or follow-up actions after broadcast.
ELIGIBILITY
• Open to reports, features, or documentaries produced by regional television journalists demonstrating a clear investigative approach.
• Entries must represent original journalism and a substantial level of inquiry and production effort.
• Programmes may be of regional, national, or international scope but should include a clear link to the regional audience or perspective.
MOST ORIGINAL AND INNOVATIVE
Sponsored by NRK Norway
OVERVIEW
This award celebrates creativity, originality, and innovation in regional television and online production.
It recognises bold ideas, fresh storytelling, imaginative formats, and technical or stylistic innovation — whether in front of or behind the camera. Entries should surprise, inspire, and make judges say: “Wow — that’s new!”
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Originality – a distinctive idea, concept, or approach that feels genuinely new or unexpected.
• Innovation – inventive use of technology, format, or production technique, whether on-screen or in the creative process behind it.
• Creative execution – strong design, visual flair, or imaginative presentation that brings the content to life.
• Impact – work that captures attention, engages audiences, and stands out from typical regional programming.
• Memorable moments – unforgettable characters, unique music, bold visuals, or storytelling that lingers long after viewing.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Creative background – what inspired the idea and what makes it new or different.
• Innovation details – how fresh approaches or technologies were used in production.
• Audience response – any notable reactions, reach, or influence the project achieved.
ELIGIBILITY
• Open to all genres and formats — factual, entertainment, documentary, drama, or digital-first productions.
• Entries may be broadcast or created for online platforms.
• Both on-screen and behind-the-scenes innovation are welcome.
MUSIC AND ARTS
Sponsored by TG4 Ireland
OVERVIEW
This category celebrates the power of music and the arts to enrich regional culture and strengthen the identity of smaller nations.
It recognises creative video content that highlights the artistic spirit — whether through performance, storytelling, or exploration of how the arts shape communities and connect people.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Diverse artistic expression – programmes that showcase music, visual arts, dance, theatre, poetry, or other creative forms.
• Strong storytelling – engaging reports or documentaries that reveal the social, emotional, or cultural impact of the arts.
• Performance excellence – outstanding coverage of live or recorded performances, showing sensitivity in direction, sound, and visual presentation.
• Cultural significance – entries that reflect the contribution of artists, musicians, or cultural initiatives to regional and national identity.
• Creativity and passion – work that conveys the beauty, energy, and value of music and the arts to everyday life.
Note: Scripted drama performances should be entered under the Drama category.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Context – background on the featured artist(s), event, or creative process.
• Cultural impact – any follow-up, audience engagement, or influence the programme achieved.
ELIGIBILITY
• Open to short-form reports, documentaries, or coverage of artistic and musical performances.
• Entries must focus on music or the arts as the central theme.
NEWS PROGRAMME
Sponsored by Stichting RPO (The Netherlands)
OVERVIEW
This award celebrates excellence in the very heart of regional public service media — the daily news programme and its digital extensions.
It recognises the skill, editorial judgment, and production quality that together create a compelling, trustworthy, and essential source of information for regional audiences.
SPECIAL ENTRY REQUIREMENT
• Entries must consist of the news output from Friday, 30 January 2026 — no other date will be accepted.
• This rule ensures that judges can compare coverage from regions across Europe within the same 24-hour news cycle.
• Please ensure in advance that your scheduled broadcast and online news services are recorded on this date.
• Only one entry per station is permitted.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Comprehensive coverage – a balanced selection of stories reflecting the full range of regional life: news, politics, culture, sport, social issues, and human interest.
• Strong editorial choices – well-judged news values showing relevance, accuracy, and impact for the regional audience.
• Audience connection – a sense of community and shared identity; the programme should bring viewers together around what matters locally.
• Professional presentation – confident, clear, and engaging anchors and reporters, supported by strong production values.
• Integration of platforms – effective use of online or streaming elements that extend the reach of the news service beyond traditional broadcasting.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Context – explanation of major stories included and why they were significant to your region that day.
• Production details – whether the programme was studio-based, on location, or a mix of both.
• Digital integration – examples of online, streaming, or social media engagement that demonstrate a wider audience reach.
ELIGIBILITY
• Only news programmes (and associated online news services) broadcast on Friday, 30 January 2026 are eligible.
• Programmes should reflect the diversity of life and issues within the region.
• Single-item entries should instead be submitted under the News Report category.
NEWS REPORT
Sponsored by EITB Basque Country, Spain
OVERVIEW
This award recognises outstanding short-form journalism that captures the essence of regional news — a strong story, told with clarity, creativity, and impact.
It celebrates the craft of concise storytelling across both traditional broadcast and digital platforms, reflecting the evolving ways in which audiences consume news today.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Strong storytelling – a clear, focused news story that is engaging, relevant, and well-structured.
• Journalistic excellence – accuracy, balance, and professionalism in reporting and presentation.
• Innovation and adaptability – storytelling that works for both traditional linear viewers and digital, mobile-first audiences.
• Audience connection – evidence of engagement, interactivity, or participation through social media or other online platforms.
• Modern approach – creative use of video, sound, and graphics to enhance impact and accessibility.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Story origin – how the story was discovered or developed, ideally showing a “bottom-up” approach to news gathering.
• Publishing details – where and how the report was first published (TV, online, or social media).
• Distribution and engagement – how the story was shared, adapted, or interacted with across platforms.
• Optional material – a supplementary video (up to 5 minutes) may be included to explain the background and source of the story.
ELIGIBILITY
• Each regional station may submit up to two entries.
• Entries must be news reports or stories up to 5 minutes in length.
• Reports may be produced for traditional broadcast or as digital-first content.
• Entries should demonstrate how the story served both broadcast and online audiences effectively.
SOCIAL MEDIA/ONLINE STORYTELLING
Sponsored by ORF Austria
OVERVIEW
Today’s news content can be viewed in many different ways but social media/online platforms are not just popular but increasingly so, especially with those who may never seek out longer-form content.
So, how are entrants using these social media/online platforms to tell stories in interesting and appropriate ways to capture and inform these, usually young, users?
There can be several videos entered as long as they are all on the same story.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Clear and coherent storytelling appropriate in form and approach for online and/or social media,
• Freshness and innovation in how the story is told,
• Evidence the story has not just reached but importantly engaged the target audience,
• Good journalism with good and relevant production skills.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• On which platforms was the story posted?
• When was the story first published?
• Who was involved in the production?
• Some background and context which will help judges understand why this story is important, relevant or different.
HOW WE WILL JUDGE
The judges will be supported and advised by a panel of at least four young (11 to 19) regular social media users who seek information and news online by preference. This panel will view videos and sit in joint session with the judges.
OTHER OPTIONS FOR ONLINE PRODUCTION
Please note that online productions are eligible for all Prix CIRCOM categories. You are therefore encouraged to submit your entry in the category that best fits its content. If your production is designed for social media, this Social Media/Online Storytelling category would be the most appropriate.
VIDEO JOURNALISM
Sponsored by the BBC (United Kingdom)
OVERVIEW
This category celebrates the modern Video Journalist (VJ) — a multi-skilled storyteller who combines journalistic instinct, technical expertise, and creative vision. It recognises individuals who research, shoot, edit, and present their own work, demonstrating originality, independence, and strong editorial judgment.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Strong storytelling – compelling, well-structured reports that show journalistic depth and clarity.
• Editorial independence – stories discovered and developed by the journalist themselves.
• Technical and creative skill – confident use of camera, sound, and editing to enhance the narrative.
• Distinctive personal style – originality, authenticity, and the unique voice of a solo journalist.
• Versatility – a range of stories showing different subjects, tones, and techniques that demonstrate adaptability and breadth of skill.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
• Each station may submit up to two entries, each from a different video journalist.
• Each entry must include three reports, each between 1 and 5 minutes long, produced entirely by the same journalist.
• Reports may be made using any equipment. If mobile journalism (MoJo) tools were used, please indicate this and list the equipment.
• A short note must accompany each entry confirming that the same journalist carried out all aspects of production — from story research and filming to editing and presentation.
• Where available, include an off-air recording or scripted link to help judges understand the broadcast context.
INFORMATION NEEDED BY JUDGES
• Journalist’s background – name, role, and confirmation of their involvement in every stage of production.
• Technical details – any specific tools, techniques, or workflows used (especially for MoJo entries).
• Broadcast context – when, where, and how the reports were published or aired.
YOUNG ONSCREEN TALENT
Sponsored by TVR Romania
OVERVIEW
This award honours emerging on-screen talent in regional public service media and celebrates the next generation of broadcasters.
Created in memory of Vanda Condurache — the inspirational TVR producer, manager, and trainer tragically killed en route to the 2007 CIRCOM Conference in Bilbao — the award recognises her dedication to nurturing young talent and excellence in regional television.
The category aims to highlight the range of promising young professionals working across Europe’s regions and to encourage them to build fulfilling, long-term careers in public service media.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
• Exceptional young talent – individuals who demonstrate outstanding skill, confidence, and potential on screen.
• Versatility – a range of work showing ability across formats such as reporting, video journalism, or presenting.
• Professionalism and personality – an engaging presence, clear communication, and a strong sense of authenticity.
• Promise for the future – evidence that the entrant is developing into a leading voice or face of regional media.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
• Each regional station may submit up to two entries.
• Entrants must be aged 30 or under on the closing date for entries (proof of date of birth may be required).
• Candidates must work full-time for a CIRCOM Regional member station, or as a regularly employed freelance for that station.
• Each entry must include 10–15 minutes of video, showcasing a variety of on-screen work to demonstrate range and ability.
• Entrants may be reporters, video journalists, or presenters.
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
• Each entry should include:
• A personal statement from the entrant outlining achievements and career goals.
• Endorsements or testimonials from senior professionals (not limited to the submitting station).
• Video evidence supporting the entrant’s on-screen skills and cited achievements.
• Mention of any CIRCOM training courses attended, if applicable.
INFORMATION FOR JUDGES
Judging will be based on a combination of video, written statements, and professional references.
Judges reserve the right to request additional information from the candidate or from colleagues familiar with their work.
• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS •
ANY QUESTIONS?
Questions about or problems relating to the online entry form, video delivery option, or other technical issues to:
Tonja Stojanac e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Questions about the Rules of Entry only to:
Mojca Recek e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.