The Bilbao City Council has launched today the participatory process to elect the Illustrious Person of Bilbao 2026. From October 5th to 18th, residents of Bilbao aged 16 and over will be able to submit a single nomination through the municipal website or in person at the municipal registry offices. The proposal must include the candidate's full name, the field in which they have excelled, and a brief summary of their merits.
This recognition is intended for individuals born or residing in Bilbao or its metropolitan area who, through their initiative, dedication, or personal effort, have distinguished themselves extraordinarily, notably, and exemplarily in their civic conduct or in any area of citizen activity. The process, regulated by the Bilbao City Council's Regulations on Honors, Distinctions, and Ceremonial, promotes open governance, active citizen involvement, democratic culture, and a sense of belonging to the city.
Following the nomination phase, the received proposals will be analyzed to ensure they meet the established requirements and that the proposed individuals have not previously received any of the distinctions outlined in the regulations. If more than three valid nominations are received, the Civic Council will select three finalists through a secret ballot, considering diversity criteria.
The process will conclude with the public vote, which will be open from November 19th to 29th. The candidacy with the highest support will be proclaimed the Illustrious Person of Bilbao 2026.
Through this model, Bilbao champions the selection of an Illustrious Person via a collective exercise of recognition and shared values, recognizing that a city is defined not only by its infrastructure or services but, above all, by the people who, through their example, pave the way for coexistence and enable common progress.
