Before we dive into the rules of this new creative contest, you might be wondering: what exactly is an emblem? An emblem is a purely visual symbol that represents an organization, group, or company without using words, letters, or acronyms.
Unlike a traditional logo that relies on text, an emblem conveys meaning through design elements such as shape, form, and color, forging an immediate connection with the audience and ensuring recognition across cultures and contexts. Think of the UN emblem: a depiction of the world map, surrounded by a pair of olive branches - a simple yet instantly recognizable symbol of peace.
With that in mind, would you like to shape the visual identity of the CTBTO Youth Group (CYG) as it celebrates 10 years since its founding?
We are excited to launch a call for designs to create a new emblem, a symbol that will represent the CYG and capture its mission: empowering youth to advance the CTBT’s entry into force and promote a world without nuclear tests.
🎨 We are looking for a fresh and inspiring emblem that reflects:
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The mission of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT): promoting a world free of nuclear tests and advancing global peace and security
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Global youth cooperation: connecting young people across borders to take collective action
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Youth empowerment in non-proliferation and disarmament: enabling the next generation to lead efforts for a safer, nuclear-free world
Emblem Submission Details:
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Design: only the symbol (no words, letters, or acronyms) to keep the message strong and globally recognizable. Text will be incorporated into the emblem once the winning design is selected.
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Format: submit your emblem as follows:
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One (x1) PNG file of your emblem in color with a transparent background
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One (x1) PNG file of your emblem in black and white with a transparent background
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One (x1) SVG or EPS file (vector) in color of your emblem
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Style: the symbol can be round or square and should be of high quality, clear, recognizable, and scalable, so it works in small and large sizes
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Originality: your submission must be entirely your own work and not include copyrighted material, and you must either own all rights or have the right to transfer them to the Organization.
🌐 Who can participate?
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CTBTO Youth Group members up to 35 years of age (if you are not a member yet, you can apply here: Create new account | CTBTO Youth Group)
📩 How to submit your design:
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Complete this Google Form: https://forms.gle/jjCt1yRx3E6vb7yy9
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Explain shortly the concept behind your design
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Don’t forget to fill in all the requested information
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Deadline: 9 August 2026, COB
Evaluation Criteria:
Upon receipt of the submissions, a panel will assess each entry based on the following criteria:
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Creativity: is the idea innovative and unique? Can it be easily distinguished from other organizations or youth initiatives? Does it incorporate a distinctive color palette that can be consistently used in CYG’s visual identity?
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Mission relevance: does the design align with the values and goals of the CTBT?
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Youth focus: does the symbol meaningfully reflect the energy, perspective, and engagement of youth?
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Global meaning: does the design communicate clearly and resonate with audiences across diverse cultures?
🏆 What happens next?
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The winning design will become the official CYG logo
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The winner will receive special recognition from the CTBTO, including acknowledgment across CYG social media platforms, and will be invited to take part in a CTBTO-related high-level event
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The winner will also have the opportunity to collaborate with CTBTO to finalize the logo according to the re-branding strategy of the group
Important note:
This is a voluntary opportunity to contribute to the CTBTO Youth Group’s rebranding and showcase your work globally.
Make sure your logo is your own original work and that you have full rights to it. Logos generated by AI are allowed only if you fully own them. Please avoid any offensive, inappropriate, or controversial content. Such submissions won’t be considered. By submitting, you take responsibility for your work and any third-party rights.