site.btaWriter Georgi Gospodinov Receives 2025 Vilenica International Literary Prize in Slovenia

The Vilenica International Literary Prize was awarded to Bulgarian writer Georgi Gospodinov at a ceremony held on September 13 in the cave of the same name in Slovenia, Janet 45 publishing house announced on Sunday. 

"Literature and stories have life-saving power. They have the power to preserve humanity and are a natural antidote, a counterweight to propaganda and aggressive populism. Literature is a great tamer of fears," said the Bulgarian author in his speech upon receiving the award. 

The chair of the jury, Slovenian poet, translator, radio host, and DJ Gregor Podlogar, also spoke about Georgi Gospodinov's work. "Georgi Gospodinov, the 40th laureate of the Vilenica Festival, embodies its legacy in his own unique way and sets an example of how literature today can still have an impact and reach everyone," he noted.

The festival gathers authors who, according to Slovene Writers’ Association President Marij Cuk, “shape global literary thought and change society with their presence and art.” This year’s motto was “Brave New World – New Rules for Life,” with a focus on literary dialogue as a means of bridging divides.

Gospodinov is the third Bulgarian winner of the award in its 40-year history, following Ilija Trojanow (in 2018) and poet Rumen Leonidov (in 2012).