Austrian State Literature Prize awarded to Ukrainian writer for the first time ever
Serhii Zhadan, a prominent Ukrainian author, poet, and musician, has been awarded the 2025 Austrian State Prize for European Literature. This prestigious honour recognises Zhadan's role as a powerful literary voice for Ukrainians, particularly during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
### Background
Zhadan studied German literature and earned a doctoral degree with a focus on Ukrainian futurism. His academic foundation has deeply informed his literary work, which has made him a leading cultural figure, particularly active in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, since 1991.
Currently residing in Lviv near the Polish border, Zhadan’s life and work have been profoundly affected by the 2022 Russian invasion. His writing increasingly addresses the brutal realities of war, including war crimes and the suffering of civilians, reflecting his personal experience and national tragedy.
### Notable Achievements
Zhadan is one of the most translated Ukrainian writers and widely recognized internationally, especially for his poetry and novels that intertwine personal and political themes with contemporary Ukrainian identity and history. His literary work is often recommended for understanding Ukraine’s complex culture and history; for example, his novel *Voroshilovgrad* is considered a key Ukrainian work.
Beyond literature, Zhadan also works as a musician, blending his artistic talents to engage audiences on multiple levels. His recent work has been prominently focused on the ongoing conflict, with poetry and prose that document and respond to the war, making him a vital cultural chronicler during historic times.
Minister Andreas Babler stated that Zhadan gives literary voice to the horror of war and to the invisible, all-encompassing fear. The prize includes a monetary award of €25,000.
The 2025 Austrian State Prize for European Literature not only honours Zhadan's artistic achievements but also highlights his role as a cultural ambassador and witness to Ukraine’s resilience in the face of aggression. The award is presented by Austria's Federal Ministry for Housing, Arts, Culture, Media and Sport.
Aside from his literary pursuits, Zhadan remains active as a volunteer, raising funds for equipment for Ukrainian forces and performing at benefit concerts. In early June 2024, he officially joined the National Guard of Ukraine to further contribute to his country's defence.
Zhadan's work, which expresses what everyday language cannot, possesses the literary power necessary to bear witness and offer hope in times of war and terror. His eligibility for the Austrian State Prize for European Literature due to its availability in German, and his subsequent win, are testaments to his international impact.
Technology plays a significant role in Zhadan's work, as he often incorporates modern concepts and contemporary themes into his literary pieces, reflecting the fusion of culture and lifestyle in today's world.
In the realm of fashion-and-beauty, Zhadan's literary characters are often portrayed in clothing and accessories that mirror the trends of their time, adding a layer of relatability for his readers.
When traveling to different cities in Ukraine, one can find numerous cafes and restaurants inspired by Zhadan's works, serving food-and-drink that evoke the flavors and atmospheres described in his novels, making his literary impact extend beyond the pages of his books.
