On the 23rd of May, 2016 during the 23rd session of the Małopolska Region Assembly, the representatives adopted a resolution on the establishment of the John Paul II Veritatis Splendor Award.
The main idea behind the establishment and awarding of this prize by the local authorities of the Małopolska voivodship to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service in expanding intercultural dialogue in its cultural, social, and interfaith aspects is to recognize and understand the message of St. John Paul II regarding the necessity and desirability of building societies based on intercultural dialogue.
The John Paul II Veritatis Splendor Award will honour individuals who are open to other cultures, who overcome stereotypes, and whose activities lead to greater comprehension of and coexistence with others. “The Award will emphasise the identity of Małopolska in the international sphere, and will display its exceptional quality and intellectual heritage. The Award is also a way of honouring the legacy of John Paul II, whose service in terms of intercultural dialogue have been universally recognised,” Leszek Zegzda, member of the Małopolska Region Board.
The Veritatis Splendor Award has also been established to commemorate the World Youth Days 2016, which took place in Kraków. The financial prize component of the Award totals 100,000 USD. The winner of the first edition of the Award will be decided on 17th October 2016.