We are so excited to reveal the judging panels for the 2026 Women’s Prize for Fiction, chaired by Julia Gillard, and the 2026 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction, chaired by Baroness Thangam Debbonaire. From politicians and poets, to broadcasters and DJs, these are ten remarkable women at the top of their game, united by a lifelong love of reading.
The Women’s Prize for Fiction
Chair Julia Gillard, former Prime Minister of Australia, is joined by Mona Arshi, poet, novelist and essayist, Salma El-Wardany, author, presenter, poet and speaker, Cariad Lloyd, writer, podcaster, actor and comedian, and Annie Macmanus, author, broadcaster and DJ.
(L-R) Annie Macmanus, Salma El-Wardany, Julia Gillard, Mona Arshi, Cariad Lloyd
Reading fiction has always been my most treasured pastime. From the simple story books of childhood to the most vaunted works of literature, and every type of page turner in between, reading has given me refuge, expanded my imagination and cultivated my understanding. There have been times in my life when I had too little time for reading. Now I am delighted to have the opportunity to plunge headlong into many vibrant works of fiction by women and to work with a joyful panel of judges to highlight the books that really speak to us and shine.
Julia Gillard, chair of the 2026 Women's Prize for Fiction judging panel
The Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction
Chair Baroness Thangam Debbonaire, member of the House of Lords and former Labour MP, is joined by Roma Agrawal, engineer, author and broadcaster, Nicola Elliott, founder of NEOM Wellbeing, Nina Stibbe, novelist and memorist, and Nicola Williams, Crown Court judge and thriller author.
(L-R) Nicola Elliott, Roma Agrawal, Thangam Debbonaire, Nicola Williams, Nina Stibbe
There is so much quality non-fiction being written by women across a wide range of topics, and yet too often – and for too long – this writing has been ignored. After 26 years in work tackling violence against women, it is distressing to see women’s rights being rolled back. Reading and writing are hugely important tools for action – two of the best ways of developing and exploring ideas thoroughly. The Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction is a powerful platform for women’s expertise and the voices we so desperately need, and I am honoured to be chair of judges for the 2026 Prize.
Baroness Thangam Debbonaire, chair of the 2026 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction judging panel
The 2026 Women’s Prize for Fiction longlist will be announced on 4 March, and the shortlist on 22 April. The 2026 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction longlist will be announced on 11 February, and the shortlist on 25 March. Winners of both prizes will be revealed on 11 June at the charity’s annual summer party in Bedford Square Gardens, London.
