The Commonwealth Foundation has postponed the opening of the 2027 Commonwealth Short Story Prize until January 2027 to conduct a comprehensive review of the prize’s processes, entry rules and submission guidelines.

This year, allegations were made that artificial intelligence (AI) was used to write the prize’s winning stories. “We responded by conducting a month-long review of the creative process behind each story before finally deciding to uphold the decision made by the 2026 judging panel,” the organisers said .

“While we stand by the outcome of the review process, we also acknowledge the need to evolve our approach and ensure all participants—including staff, entrants, readers and judges—are more prepared to meet the challenge posed by AI in future competitions.

“We firmly believe in supporting emerging literary talent and amplifying less-heard voices across the Commonwealth and we remain committed to sharing unique human stories which show imagination and flair.

We can only do this by making sure that we have robust and fair processes in place.”

The 2026 Commonwealth Short Story Prize closed with 7,806 entries from writers in 54 countries, who ranged in age from 18 to 95.

There was record participation from 12 countries, including Antigua and Barbuda, Bangladesh, Eswatini, Malta, and Papua New Guinea.