In a significant moment for refugee literature, Counterpoints has been awarded the prestigious £15,000 Footnote X Prize for its outstanding work amplifying migrant voices through publishing. The announcement was made on Thursday, November 27, 2025, recognising the organisation's profound contribution to diversifying Britain's literary landscape.
A Platform for Marginalised Voices
The Footnote X Prize, specifically designed to support initiatives that champion refugee and migrant writers, found its perfect recipient in Counterpoints. The organisation has established itself as a vital force in creating space for stories that might otherwise remain untold, giving platform to experiences of displacement, resilience, and rebuilding.
The judging panel praised Counterpoints for its "innovative and impactful" approach to literary production, highlighting how their work challenges conventional narratives about migration. Through anthologies, single-author works, and community projects, they have consistently elevated writing that reflects the complex realities of seeking sanctuary in the UK.
Beyond the Cash Prize
While the £15,000 financial award provides crucial support for future projects, the recognition carries additional significance. The prize shines a national spotlight on the importance of refugee literature at a time when migration remains a central topic in public discourse.
This award arrives during a period of intense political debate surrounding immigration policy, making Counterpoints' mission to humanise statistical narratives through storytelling particularly vital. Their work demonstrates how literature can foster empathy and understanding across cultural divides.
The Future of Refugee Publishing
The substantial prize money will enable Counterpoints to expand its programming and support more writers from refugee and migrant backgrounds. The organisation has outlined plans to develop new mentorship schemes and increase publication opportunities for emerging voices.
This investment comes at a critical juncture for diversity in UK publishing, where representation remains an ongoing challenge. By backing initiatives like Counterpoints, the Footnote X Prize contributes to building a more inclusive literary ecosystem that reflects Britain's multicultural reality.
The success of Counterpoints serves as both celebration and catalyst, proving there's both audience and appetite for stories that cross borders and challenge perceptions. As one judge noted, their work doesn't just add to British literature—it fundamentally enriches it.
