German Language Award

Since 1984, the Henning Kaufmann Foundation for the German Language has honored individuals and institutions throughout Germany who have distinguished themselves through outstanding achievements in the care, development, and clarity of the German language. This prestigious award recognizes scientists, writers, journalists, translators, and other dedicated actors from culture, media, education, and research. The aim is to strengthen public awareness of linguistic quality and to provide impetus for clear, lively expression. As a form of recognition, the award makes an important contribution to the cultural appreciation of linguistic innovations and to the promotion of scholarly engagement with the German language.

Eligible to participate are individuals, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions that present outstanding works in the German language in scientific, literary, or media fields or that particularly advance language mediation. Self-nominations are excluded: nominations are made exclusively by the foundation’s board, which continuously reviews proposals. The evaluation criteria include the quality and comprehensibility of language-related works as well as their lasting impact on the care and development of the German language. Interested parties find in the award high recognition and receive support in disseminating their linguistic expertise.