Submission now open for the 2024 Etxepare - LABORAL Kutxa Translation Prize

The call for entries for the translation prize organised annually by the Etxepare Basque Institute and LABORAL Kutxa is now open. Through this call, a prize will be awarded for the translation of a literary work originally written in Basque and published in 2023. The two institutions collaborate to promote the translation and publication of Basque literature beyond the Basque-speaking region. The call for entries is open from 6 to 31 May (entry requirements).

The jury’s decision will be based on the quality of the translation and the effectiveness of the publisher´s promotional efforts. The prize is worth 4,000 euros to be shared equally between the publisher and the translator. Additionally, the prize-winners will be eligible for a grant of up to 2,000 euros. This grant will support their attendance at the prize-giving ceremony and further promotional activities in the country where the translated work is published. These activities may include presentations, events, publicity campaigns, and media interviews.

The contest is open to translators and publishers from around the world, subject to the following requirements: the translation must have been published in 2023 and is the translation of a literary work originally written and published in Euskara.

Last year’s award went to ‘Hezurraren erretura’ by Miren Agur Meabe, translated from Euskara into English by Amaia Gabantxo. The translation was published by Parthian Books under the title ´Burning Bones´. The jury praised Amaia Gabantxo´s career and translation work, as well as the potential of Parthian Books and its interest in Basque literature.

The Etxepare – LABORAL Kutxa Translation Prize was created in 2015 to recognise the translation of literary works written and published in Basque. Translation is the bridge that enables Basque writers and their work to reach an international audience. These awards shine a light on the often-overlooked work of the translator.