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The Theme
You are an FT columnist, in an era of continuous conflict. You are asked to write an article about conflict, and this can take various forms (see potential topics below). In your article, make sure to thoroughly analyze the conflict presented, as well as critically examine/propose a way of resolving it.
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Check out the theme options below:
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Geopolitical Conflict
So...Why Participate?
1
Stand out in your university applications
Top universities, whether it’s Oxford, Cambridge, or Ivy League schools, are looking for students who can think critically, analyze facts, and communicate ideas clearly. Entering this competition gives you the chance to showcase your writing in a real-world setting, proving that you’ve got what it takes!
2
Be a part of something bigger
Journalism is about more than words on a page—it’s about driving change, giving a voice to the unheard, and holding power accountable.
Your essay could make a real impact and contribute to meaningful conversations around the world.
3
Earn an exclusive certificate from Financial Times & CGF
Stand out with a prestigious certificate awarded by two global leaders in education and journalism.
This certificate recognizes your effort, creativity, and intellectual achievement, showcasing your dedication to excellence.
You can also:
Get published by the Financial Times &
Earn a FREE FT Membership for your School
Achieve what most young writers dream of—seeing your work published in the prestigious Financial Times, a platform read by global leaders and influencers. Plus, give your school access to a free membership, unlocking exclusive resources to fuel academic and intellectual growth.
Save the Key Dates!
Prerequisites
For your contribution to be valid, the following criteria must be met:
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Qualify with an Excellent Essay
We expect a professional, creative, and thought-provoking essay. Be bold, unconventional, and distinctive when addressing the competition question.
For your contribution to be valid, the following criteria must be met:
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Your essay must be copied and pasted into the form submission.
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The essay length must not exceed 4,000 characters (approximately 800 words).
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The submission must adhere to all specified guidelines.
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Check Your Eligibility and Prepare Documents
To be eligible, you must fulfill all of the following criteria:
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Be a current high school student aged 14–19.
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Verify your high school enrollment by providing one of the following:
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Submission using your school email address.
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Most recent official school transcript (PDF format).
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A letter from your school, signed and stamped by a member of the senior leadership team.​
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Steps After Submission
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You will receive a confirmation email with an automatically generated candidate code.
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If your submission is selected for the final evaluation stage, further documentation may be required. Be ready to receive communication from ftcompetition@crimsonglobalfoundation.org.
Evaluation Process
A panel of seasoned educators, journalists, and academic experts are populating the jury.
There will be three evaluation phases:
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Criteria for Success
Innovation/
Creativity
Argument/
Analysis
Research (accuracy, relevance, rigour)
Communication (clarity of writing: “sharp”, like FT)
Don't
know where to begin?
Start on your journey to our global essay competition with these simple steps:
1
Check Your School’s Access to the Financial Times
First, check whether your school is already registered for free access to the FT: Check here and if not, get a member of staff to sign up.
2
Explore Thought-Provoking Articles
​Then, start by reading the following articles below and think: what are the commonalities of the themes discussed?​
Get Recognized & Rewarded
The Ultimate Challenge for Young Writers
FINANCIAL TIMES X CRIMSON GLOBAL FOUNDATION
GLOBAL ESSAY COMPETITION
ANY QUESTIONS? Reach us out at ftcompetition@crimsonglobalfoundation.org!