nuOct 16, 2026, 16:40

Two Joost Zwagerman Essay Prize nominees withdraw over AI use

Two nominees for the Joost Zwagerman Essay Prize have withdrawn their submissions following an AI-based authenticity check that raised concerns about their work. The prize organizers now intend to tighten their submission procedures to ensure all future entries are verified for originality.

Two nominees for the Joost Zwagerman Essay Prize have withdrawn their entries following an investigation into the authenticity of their work. The contest organizers utilized an AI detection tool called Pangram after concerns were raised regarding the originality of some submissions among the five finalists. Following discussions with the jury, both authors decided to remove their essays from the competition. The jury emphasized that the award is intended to celebrate original writing talent and authentic personal perspectives, which must remain beyond reproach.

In response to the incident, the organizers of the Joost Zwagerman Essay Prize have announced plans to revise their regulations and procedures. Future submissions will undergo mandatory authenticity screenings to prevent similar issues. The prestigious prize, which carries a cash award of 7,500 euros, is presented annually on the birthday of the late Dutch author and poet Joost Zwagerman. This year, the ceremony is scheduled to take place at Theater de Vest in the city of Alkmaar.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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