Now in its second year, the France-based Prix Carmignac Gestion du photojournalism is dedicated to help the work of photojournalists that require "courage, audacity, freedom and determination," says Edouard Carmignac.

Each year, one region of the world is chosen as the focus of the Prix Carmignac Gestion. The brief, this year, is for photographers to develop a project in the Pashtun region of Afghanistan - unofficially called Pashtunistan (see Wikipedia entry here). Photojournalists are free to choose their own angle on the theme, be it political, social or cultural, says Carmignac.

An independent jury of photo editors, photographers and news experts will choose one project among all entries, with the winning photographer receiving a €50,000 [£41,200 / $60,200] grant for the completion of the work.

Carmignac Gestion will also help the photographer in putting together and promoting the report, with an exhibition and a book planned for release in the 12 months following completion.

Entry is free, however, photographers must send at least 10 images taken from a series - which doesn't necessary have to be about Pashtunistan -, a portfolio of 20 images representing their work, a resume, a proposal and a completed entry form, which can be downloaded from the Carmignac website.

Photojournalists have until 30 September to submit their proposals. The winning photographer will then have until 28 March 2011 to produce his or her reportage.

For more information, visit www.carmignac.ch or contact the organisers at ngallon@carmignac.com.