Competition Hub

United Nations Writing Competition

Calling all Year 12 & 13 students! Enter the University of Essex Politics and International Relations Competition!  

Are you passionate about politics, international relations, and global challenges like climate change, justice, gender inequality, poverty, and sustainability? The Department of Government at the University of Essex wants to hear from you! 

We would love to welcome entries from any students interested in these issues - it is not limited to those already studying politics! 

The Challenge: 

Choose one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and submit a 350-400 word piece on its significance. Explore the challenge it addresses and potential solutions at local, national, or global levels, demonstrating your critical thinking and understanding of key issues. Entries will be judged on writing style, creativity, and analytical depth. 

Why Enter? 

• A panel of experts, including the University of Essex’s Regius Professor, will evaluate entries. 
• A unique opportunity to talk about your entry as part of your personal statement when making your university application, to stand out from the crowd. 
• Submissions will be assessed by year group to ensure fairness.
• Winner receives a £100 Amazon Gift Card! 

How to Enter?  

• Download this Word template and include your entry in this document (you will need to use this template to submit your entry – please do not use your own blank Word document or any other type of file.  
• Submit your entry, using our submission form – when you complete this form, you will need to upload your completed Word template with your entry included to the submission form, where indicated.  
• Submit your entry on or before 21 November 2025. 
• Please limit your submission to a maximum of 350-400 words. 

Share your voice. Showcase your ideas. Join the conversation. 

Submit your entry now! 

The winner will be announced on or before 12 December 2025 by email! 

We hope to receive your competition entry soon. If you have any questions, please email us at schools-link@essex.ac.uk. 

Did you know? 

• Previous students of the Department of Government include a Nobel Peace Prize winner, numerous Members of Parliament, one Speaker of the House of Commons, one Home Secretary, and many more. 
• We are ranked 20th for student positivity in politics (NSS 2025, English Broad Discipline Universities). 
• We are ranked Top 20 in the UK for Politics and International Studies in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.  

Learn more about the Department of Government at the University of Essex here.