Thank you for participating in the 2026 World Citizen Essay Contest! To submit your essay, please complete the required information as indicated on this form. Below is a reminder of the 2026 Essay Prompt for your reference. The rubric and additional 2026 WCEC resources can be found here. If you run into any issues or have any questions about your essay submission, please reach out to essaycontest@world-affairs.org. Global Classroom looks forward to hearing from our youth and learning about the local and global issues important to YOU!
2026 WCEC Essay Prompt:
In 2026, we mark two historic milestones: the 75th Anniversary of the World Affairs Council of Seattle and the 250th Anniversary of the United States. Both invite us to reflect on democracy—its promises, its challenges, and its future.
Since 1951, the World Affairs Council has worked to bring people together, strengthen understanding across differences, and prepare individuals for an interconnected world. Over the past 75 years, democracy has flourished in some places while facing challenges in others. In every community, democratic values are shaped by how people participate, resolve disagreements, and build trust with one another.
This year’s World Citizen Essay Contest (WCEC) invites students in grades 3–12 across Washington State to add their voices to this important global conversation. The contest is a chance for young people to imagine, question, and share their ideas about the future of democracy, whether in their schools, neighborhoods, countries, or the world. Families, educators, and communities are encouraged to support students in developing their perspectives.
In 1,000 words or less, respond to ONE of the following questions:
- What role should global citizens play in strengthening democracy?
- How can local actions, whether in schools, communities, or neighborhoods, connect to global challenges facing democracy?
- What lessons from history can guide young people today in helping democracy remain strong?
- How can democracy help communities address shared challenges such as climate change, clean water, or sustainable growth, both locally and globally
- Looking ahead, what kind of democracy do you hope future generations will inherit 75 years from now?
NOTE: All essays submitted will be evaluated using AI detection tools. If your essay is found to have over 10% AI-generated content, it will be disqualified from the competition. Please ensure that your work is original and authentic.