Heiðursverðlaun

Heiðursverðlaun is the Icelandic term for honorary awards—prizes or decorations given to individuals or organizations in recognition of exceptional achievement, lasting contributions, or distinguished service. The phrase is a generic designation used across many institutions rather than the name of a single national prize.

In Iceland, heiðursverðlaun are conferred by a range of bodies, including government agencies, universities, cultural institutions, and professional associations. They typically acknowledge merit over a lifetime or for a particularly impactful contribution, rather than reward a specific competition. Recipients may receive a diploma, medal, or citation, and in some cases a monetary prize. The exact form and scope of the award depend on the awarding body.

The selection process usually involves nominations, evaluation by a committee, and approval by a governing body or minister. Ceremonies are often public, with a formal presentation and a citation outlining the recipient’s achievements. Heiðursverðlaun are regarded as high honors within Icelandic public, cultural, and civic life, and may be awarded to Icelanders or, occasionally, to non-Icelanders for contributions connected to Iceland.

Note that heiðursverðlaun is the generic term for an honorary prize; specific awards carry their own official names, criteria, and procedures. In English-language materials, the term is commonly translated as “honorary award” or “honorary prize.”