#Canada #Toronto #Lionel Gelber Prize #Janice Gross Stein #John Bew

The 2026 Lionel Gelber Prize: A Prestigious Recognition in Global Affairs

The Lionel Gelber Prize Board has proudly announced the jury for the 36th installment of the Lionel Gelber Prize, which recognizes outstanding non-fiction literature in the realm of international affairs. This prestigious award, founded in 1989 to commemorate the legacy of Canadian diplomat Lionel Gelber, seeks to honor the best English-language book that explores pressing global issues. The winning author receives a significant cash prize of CAD 50,000, enabling a wider appreciation for their impactful work.

Chaired by Janice Gross Stein, who is notably the Founding Director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and a highly regarded figure in Canadian political science, the jury is formed by an impressive lineup of experts. Stein's extensive credentials include being a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and a member of the Order of Canada, highlighting her distinguished contributions to the field.

Joining her on the jury are high-profile international scholars and practitioners: John Bew, who has held pivotal roles in the U.K. government, including as the chief foreign policy advisor at Downing Street; Nina Srinivasan Rathbun, a prominent professor specializing in international security; James Steinberg, the Dean of Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, a former Deputy Secretary of State; and Sergey Radchenko, a distinguished professor at Johns Hopkins University and the winner of the 2025 Lionel Gelber Prize. This diverse panel brings together an exceptional depth of knowledge and expertise that ensures the prize continues to reflect utmost integrity and insightful scholarship.

Judith Gelber, chair of the Lionel Gelber Prize Board, expressed confidence in the jury's extensive expertise, stating, "This panel embodies a depth of expertise and knowledge that make the Lionel Gelber Prize truly unique and exceptional." This statement underscores the credibility of the jury as they embark on the task of assessing submissions that reflect critical conversations in contemporary geopolitics.

The Lionel Gelber Prize aims to highlight and reward authors who tackle complex international issues, and this year, minds will turn to the selections which will be narrowed down to a shortlist of five books, set to be revealed on January 14, 2026. This careful selection process ensures that only those works capable of stimulating important debates and understanding of global relations are considered.

The announcement of the winning book will be made on March 18, 2026, followed by a ceremonious prize presentation and lecture scheduled for April. Such events celebrate not only the art of writing but also the endeavor to enlighten the public concerning nuanced foreign affairs.

In summary, the Lionel Gelber Prize continues to serve not just as a literary accolade but as an influential platform that elevates collective consciousness regarding vital global challenges. With the 2026 jury comprising some of the most significant thinkers and policymakers in the field, the prize is set to maintain its reputation as a key recognition of excellence in the literature of international affairs. For further details and updates, interested individuals can visit the official Gelber Prize website.