Open Call: Architectural Essay Writing, 7th Cycle: ‘Thresholds of Movement’

Introduction

The architectural essay competition, 7th cycle, is the 27th initiative of the Architectural Journalism & Criticism Organisation, founded by architect Pappal Suneja, aiming to spread awareness on the subject and inspire exploration and writing about architecture and related fields from a researcher’s perspective.

Presentation

The theme of the series in this cycle is “Migration and Immigration”. The competition seeks to examine migration not only as a geographical movement, but as a condition that transforms individuals, communities, and the built environment. Participants are invited to examine how migration reshapes architecture, cities, territories, working conditions, and public life.

About the Project

The competition is open to all writers in English, regardless of nationality. Participants may submit up to two entries/essays per registration. Each essay must not exceed 1,500-2,500 words. Submissions must be sent to ajc.competition@gmail.com with the subject “Essay Writing Competition, 7th Cycle – Category (collegians, and Open)” in a Word document with 12 pt. Arial font and single spacing.

Schedule

June 1, 2026: Submission window opens;
July 15, 2026: Early registration deadline (1,200 INR for participants from India and 25 Euros for international participants);
August 30, 2026: Standard registration deadline (1,800 INR for participants from India and 30 Euros for international participants);
September 2026: Winners announcement.

Prizes

1st place: Citation award, a book set curated by AJC, valued at 18,000 INR/200 USD;
2nd place: Special mention, a book set curated by AJC, valued at 9,000 INR/100 USD;
In addition, attested participation certificates will be sent to all participants, and the best entries will be published on various architectural web portals.

Jury

The jury panel for the competition is composed of:

Dr. Manu P. Sobti (University of Queensland, Australia);
Dr. Giorgia Aquilar (Berlin International University of Applied Sciences, Germany);
Dr. Shruthi Joshi (Bhanuben Nanavati College of Architecture, India);
Aliaksandr Shuba (Bauhaus University Weimar, Germany);
Megha Balooni (Studio Meiso, India);
Pappal Suneja (Bauhaus University Weimar, Germany).

Official Link:

https://www.ajc-plus.com/post/open-call-architectural-essay-writing-7th-cycle-thresholds-of-movement