Russian writers living outside of Russia can submit works to an annual contest that aims to preserve and develop the Russian language around the world. Deadline to apply: November 30.

Categories in the "Russian Prize" contest include: novels, short stories and poetry. The first place winner in each category will receive the RUB equivalent to US$5,000. The second prize winners will be awarded the equivalent of US$2,000, and the third prize, US$1,500. The award ceremony will take place in Moscow in April, 2010.

The competition is supported by the Institute of Eurasian Studies.

For more information (in Russian), go to http://www.russpremia.ru or e-mail info@russpremia.ru