The Prix des Cinq Continents de la Francophonie, established in 2001 by the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), celebrates literary works that reflect the cultural and editorial diversity of the French language across the world. Each year, this prestigious prize recognizes an original narrative work of fiction—novels, stories, or short story collections—written in French.
A Global Showcase of Literary Talent
For the 2025 edition, six reading committees reviewed 129 submissions and selected ten finalists during their meeting on December 10, 2024. These committees represent a rich cultural tapestry, with members from Belgium, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Canada-Québec, France, Senegal, and Vietnam-Pacific Asia. Their selections aim to spotlight diverse, innovative voices that capture the imagination and present compelling narratives of contemporary realities.
The 2025 Finalists
The ten shortlisted novels are:
- Le rêve du pêcheur by Hemley Boum (Cameroon-France), Gallimard (France).
- Bientôt les vivants by Amina Damerdji (Algeria-France), Gallimard (France).
- Rapatriement by Eve Guerra (DR Congo-France), Grasset et Fasquelle (France).
- Ça brille encore by Bénédicte Lotoko (Belgium), Les Impressions Nouvelles (Belgium).
- Peau Rouge by Gyslain Ngueno (Cameroon-France), L’Oiseau Parleur Éditions (France).
- La vie privée d’oubli by Gisèle Pineau (France), Philippe Rey (France).
- Adikou by Raphaëlle Red (France), Grasset et Fasquelle (France).
- La nébuleuse de la tarentule by Mélissa Verreault (Canada-Québec), Éditions XYZ (Canada-Québec).
- Le violon d’Adrien by Gary Victor (Haiti), Mémoire d’encrier (Canada-Québec).
- Peau-de-Sang by Audrée Wilhelmy (Canada-Québec), Leméac Éditeur (Canada-Québec).
These works represent emerging and established authors whose innovative storytelling introduces readers to fresh perspectives.
Recognition and Celebration
The winner will be announced on March 20, 2025, during the International Day of La Francophonie. The prize carries a monetary award of €15,000 and a yearlong promotional campaign, including participation in literary festivals, book fairs, and international events. A special jury mention, accompanied by a €5,000 award, may also be granted.
The international jury is chaired by Fawzia Zouari (Tunisia-France) and includes renowned literary figures such as Monique Proulx (Canada-Québec), Liliana Lazar (Romania), Mohamed Mbougar Sarr (Senegal), Sami Tchak (Togo), and others. Two members of this year’s jury, Khalid Lyamlahy (Morocco) and Eric Chacour (Egypt-Québec), are the 2024 laureate and special mention recipients, respectively.
Promoting Francophone Voices
The Prix des Cinq Continents highlights the richness and dynamism of Francophone literature. By recognizing authors from various regions, the award underscores the French language’s ability to transcend borders and enrich global cultural discourse. The selected works showcase the writers’ creativity and unique cultural experiences, contributing to the broader literary world.
