It was given to authors for significant contributions to contemporary European literature, and to translators for exceptional translations of contemporary European literary works.
The prize was established by the European Council in May 1989, as a way to promote of books and reading.
Each year a jury composed of members selected by European Union countries decided on the winners.
Works eligible for prizes had to be published in the three years preceding the date for the submission of entries.
It was then discontinued and replaced by the EU's Culture 2000 programme, itself succeeded by the European Union Prize for Literature.