This year’s photo contest, “Memories, History and Heritage of Coastal Cities,” celebrates the stories our shorelines tell: from old shipyards and forgotten harbours to the steady beam of lighthouses and the quiet endurance of maritime traditions.

Anyone within the EU-CONEXUS community — students, researchers, lecturers or staff — are welcome to take part. The rules are simple: one photo per person, no AI tools, no heavy editing. Each image should be clear, original and authentic.

Entries close on 19 November 2025. After that, each of the nine partner universities will select their top three local entries. These finalists will then go forward to a second round — an online vote open to everyone across the EU-CONEXUS alliance.

Voting runs for two weeks, and by 17 December 2025, the three winning photos will be announced. Each winner will receive a €250 prize.