The Prince Claus Awards are presented annually to individuals and organisations based primarily in Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe and the Caribbean for their outstanding achievements in the field of culture and development. 

They are honoured for the exceptional quality of their work, as well as the positive impact they have on their society and the wider cultural or social field. 

How does it work? 

Nomination process - Each year the Prince Claus Fund invites international experts in the field of culture and development to nominate possible recipients for the Prince Claus Awards. In exceptional cases, it is possible for members of the public to present a nomination. It is not possible to nominate oneself or one’s own organisation or to apply for an award. All communications regarding the nominations and nominees are strictly confidential.

Selection -  Research of each nomination is carried out at the Prince Claus Fund's Research, Monitoring and Evaluation team. The independent Prince Claus Awards Committee conducts an initial meeting and prepares a short list, which is further researched. Second opinions from experts are also requested. A second meeting of the Awards Committee draws up a final list which is presented to the Prince Claus Fund Board for approval. 

Announcement - Once approved, the Prince Claus Fund's Director approaches the laureates personally to inform them about the award and to ask them if they accept it. The Awards Committee composes a full report on why the laureates were selected. 

In September each year, the Fund issues a press release announcing the year's laureates and publishes the Awards Committee Report. Nominators and advisors are also informed of the decision regarding their candidate. 

Awards ceremonies - The Prince Claus Awards are presented to the laureates in Amsterdam by the Fund’s Honorary Chair HRH Prince Constantijn in the presence of members of the Dutch Royal Family and invited guests. The ceremony takes place in December. Later, the Awards are then presented to the laureates by the Dutch ambassador in the countries where the laureates live and work.