#Canada #Toronto #Lionel Gelber Prize #Janice Gross Stein #international jury

International Jury to Announce 2025 Lionel Gelber Prize Winner

The Lionel Gelber Prize, celebrated annually for its recognition of outstanding non-fiction in English on international affairs, is gearing up for its 36th edition. This prestigious award honors the legacy of Canadian diplomat and author Lionel Gelber and is managed by the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto. The prize has consistently highlighted exceptional writings that contribute to the understanding of global issues.

Announcement of the Jury

On January 14, 2025, the Lionel Gelber Prize Board revealed the members of this year's jury, led by the esteemed Janice Gross Stein, a prominent scholar in conflict management and founding director of the Munk School. Joining her are returning jurors Francis J. Gavin and Iain Martin, alongside new members John Bew and Nina Srinivasan Rathbun, bringing a wealth of expertise from various backgrounds in international relations and security.

Janice Gross Stein emphasizes the diverse experiences of the jury members, stating, "I am proud that such a capable and seasoned group will select the winner of this prestigious award." This diverse jury ensures that the evaluation of the nominated works will be thorough and informed by real-world expertise.

Meet the Jury Members

1. Janice Gross Stein (Toronto): As an influential academic, Stein has contributed significantly to the discourse on public policy and global affairs. She is recognized as a member of the Royal Society of Canada, and her research currently focuses on the intersection of technology and public policy.

2. John Bew (London): Bew has a rich history working at the highest levels of the UK government, serving as the chief foreign policy advisor for multiple prime ministers. His scholarly insights combine well with practical policy experience, making him a vital component of the jury.

3. Francis J. Gavin (Washington): An acclaimed scholar, Gavin is currently the inaugural director of the Henry A. Kissinger Center for Global Affairs at Johns Hopkins University. His work has significantly impacted the field of nuclear security policy and international relations.

4. Iain Martin (London): A well-respected journalist and author, Martin writes for major publications and has a deep understanding of geopolitical dynamics, particularly within European contexts.

5. Nina Srinivasan Rathbun (Toronto): Rathbun brings her expertise in nuclear non-proliferation policy and has made strides in advancing understanding about global governance and security, contributing valuable insights to the deliberations of the jury.

Prize Contribution and Timeline

Established in 1989, the Lionel Gelber Prize not only recognizes literary excellence but also provides a substantial monetary award of CAD $50,000 to the winning author, underscoring the importance of literature in international discourse. The finalists will be announced on February 11, 2025, and the winner will be revealed during a ceremony and conference on April 24, 2025.

The prize reflects the importance of well-researched and articulate perspectives on international issues, encouraging authors to delve deeper into the complexities of global events through their writings. With the diverse jury assembled, the anticipation for this year’s selection process builds, promising to spotlight narratives that may reshape our understanding of contemporary global challenges.

The intellectual engagement facilitated by the Lionel Gelber Prize serves not only as recognition for authors but as an essential contribution to ongoing discussions about critical issues facing our world today. Who will emerge as the winner of this coveted award? The literary world eagerly awaits the jury's verdict.