Front Line Defenders is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Front Line Defenders Award for Human Rights Defenders at Risk — an annual recognition that celebrates the courage and resilience of those standing up for human rights in some of the world’s most challenging and dangerous environments.

Since its establishment in 2005, the award has honored individuals, collectives, organizations, and communities who have made outstanding contributions to promoting and protecting the rights of others, often while facing significant personal risk. The award not only acknowledges their bravery but also seeks to provide greater visibility and support to those whose safety and work may benefit from increased international attention.

Recognizing Courage in the Face of Risk

Human rights defenders (HRDs) across the globe work tirelessly to uphold justice, equality, and dignity — from advocating for environmental protection and gender rights to defending freedom of expression and marginalized communities. In many cases, this work comes with great danger. HRDs are often threatened, harassed, or silenced for speaking truth to power.

The Front Line Defenders Award was created to amplify their voices and provide them with the recognition they deserve. The award is specifically intended for HRDs who have not yet received substantial international attention and for whom increased visibility can enhance their security and strengthen their advocacy efforts.

Regional Recognition Across the Globe

Each year, five awardees are selected as regional winners representing:

• Africa

• The Americas

• Asia

• Europe & Central Asia

• The Middle East & North Africa

Through this regional recognition, Front Line Defenders highlights the diversity of human rights struggles and honors defenders operating in vastly different — yet equally complex — contexts.

Who Can Be Nominated

Nominations are open to individuals, collectives, organizations, or communities working on any human rights issue and facing serious risks due to their work or the insecurity of their operating environment.

The nomination process is open to anyone — both individuals and organizations — who wish to put forward a deserving human rights defender. Self-nominations, however, are not permitted.

To be considered, nominees must:

• Be currently active in human rights work (the award does not recognize historical or posthumous contributions).

• Not hold a prominent role within a political party.

• Not have received significant international recognition previously.

• If in exile, remain at risk due to their human rights activities.

The number of nominations a candidate receives does not influence the selection process.

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

• The nature and impact of the nominee’s human rights work.

• The level of risk or consequences associated with their efforts.

• Their sustained commitment to advancing human rights despite high risks.

• The potential impact that receiving the award would have on their safety, visibility, and ability to continue their work.

Incomplete nominations will not be considered.

Nomination Process and Deadline

Nominations for the 2026 Front Line Defenders Award can be submitted through a secure online form, available in several languages, ensuring accessibility for nominators worldwide.

AR: https://zurl.co/hizZm
ES: https://zurl.co/igNRU
FA: https://zurl.co/am6XM
FR: https://zurl.co/ns40B
PT: https://zurl.co/q6tgk
RU: https://zurl.co/Dz17X
TR: https://zurl.co/kOOGN
ZH: https://zurl.co/gbwe6

The deadline for submissions is Friday, 23 January 2026.

This award continues to serve as a beacon of solidarity, drawing global attention to those who defend human rights in the face of oppression, intimidation, and violence. By nominating a deserving defender, you can help amplify their impact and contribute to safeguarding their essential work.

For more opportunities click here.