The Luis Valtueña International Humanitarian Photography Award, established by Médicos del Mundo Spain, is a competition that seeks to honor and promote photographic works that vividly depict social injustices, human rights violations, and the various conditions that either foster or mitigate these issues. Named in memory of Luis Valtueña, along with his fellow aid workers Flors Sirera, Manuel Madrazo, and Mercedes Navarro, who tragically lost their lives while performing humanitarian duties in Rwanda and Bosnia, the award emphasizes the power of visual storytelling in raising awareness about critical humanitarian issues.

Each year, this competition attracts entries from photographers around the globe, showcasing powerful images that narrate stories related to health crises, natural disasters, armed conflicts, and the plight of vulnerable groups such as refugees and migrants. The award highlights the importance of documentary photography and photojournalism in spotlighting social exclusion and human rights abuses, aiming to foster a greater understanding and drive positive change through visual documentation. By providing a platform for these compelling visual narratives, the award underscores the vital role of photography in humanitarian advocacy and public awareness.

Participants in the Luis Valtueña International Humanitarian Photography Award benefit from significant exposure and recognition. The winner is awarded a €6,000 grant to support further photographic projects that align with the mission of Médicos del Mundo. Additionally, the selected works are featured in an annual catalog and a traveling exhibition, which not only honors the photographers but also amplifies their impactful stories across various platforms and audiences. This comprehensive support ensures that the photographers’ messages reach a broad audience, fostering a deeper public engagement with pressing humanitarian issues.

There is no entry fee.

Eligibility

Open to amateur and professional photographers worldwide.

Prize

The winner receives a €6,000 grant to support a photographic project aligned with Médicos del Mundo’s mission. Additionally, the winner and finalists will have their work published in the award’s catalog and showcased in a collective and traveling exhibition. The organization covers travel and accommodation expenses for the winner and finalists to attend the award ceremony in Madrid. The chosen works are also widely promoted through various media channels and platforms by Médicos del Mundo.