The Martin Ennals Foundation invites individuals or organisations working in the field of human rights to submit nominations for the 2009 Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders.


The award, worth 20,000 Swiss Francs (US$17,500), is given annually to an individual or an organisation who has demonstrated an exceptional record of combating human rights violations by courageous and innovative means. Special consideration is given to those who are at risk and in need of immediate protection.


The Martin Ennals Foundation represents a worldwide collaboration among human rights non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Winners are chosen by an international jury made up of 10 human rights NGOs, including Human Rights Watch.


About Martin Ennals

According to the Award website, "Martin Ennals (1927-1991) was instrumental to the modern human rights movement. A fiercely devoted activist, he creatively pursued ideas ahead of his time as the first Secretary-General of Amnesty International and was the driving force behind ten other organisations. His deep desire was to see more cooperation and solidarity among NGOs."

Click here for information on making a nomination and to access nomination information in French or Spanish.

Click here to read about the previous award recipients.

The Martin Ennals Foundation Award website accessed on June 3 2009.