In 1999 the Public Organization The Social and Political Technologies Centre established the highest award in journalism (television, radio, press) The Golden Pen Mass Media International Annual Rating Contest.

The aim of the contest is to detect the best programs of Ukrainian and international mass media (television, radio, press and Internet mass media) that influence social, political, economic and cultural life in the state. The contest assists in mass media of Ukraine development. It is an important motive force for social, political, economic and cultural development of the country.

For the history of its existence the contest has been recognized abroad. The best mass media of the near abroad countries (Russia, Belarus, Poland, Georgia) have been awarded.

The winners are elected by the public (television viewers, radio listeners, newspaper and magazine readers) questioned by independent sociological services during the year.

The contest results are traditionally summarized in the International Centre of Culture and Arts «Zhovtnevyi palats» in summer. Beside the award ceremony guests will enjoy an impressive concert with participation of Ukrainian and foreign popstars. Direct transmission of the contest is carried out by the National television.

Famous people (politicians, scientists, culture and art representatives) from Ukraine and abroad award the best journalists.

The contest is directed by:

President – Larysa Medina

General Producer – Sviatoslav Pogranychnyi