Awarded by the Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE), the International Press Freedom Awards recognise two journalists each year who have overcome enormous odds to report on human rights and have demonstrated a commitment to human rights by reporting without bias or discrimination. Preference is given to candidates who have not won a major press freedom award from another organisation and who stand to benefit from international exposure due to the difficulties caused by their work. Each award consists of a framed plaque and cash prize of CDN$3,000.

The winner of the award will be a journalist or media organisation who:

1. eports on human rights issues or other issues, or from regions or countries, not often covered by other media;
2. demonstrates a commitment to human rights by reporting without bias, sexism, racism, etc.;
3. has not won a major press freedom award from another organisation;
4. will benefit from international exposure due to the difficulty/threats caused by their work;
5. has overcome enormous odds simply to produce the news; and
6. has taken personal risks or suffered physical reprisals for working as a journalist.

To be eligible for an award, applicants must be nominated by an organisation or individual. Self-nominations are not accepted.

Click here for more information.

Click here for a nomination form in PDF format. This should be accompanied by a cover letter and samples of the nominee's work if applicable. The cover letter should explain how you know this person and why you believe this person deserves the award.

In 2008, CJFE honoured journalists from Sudan and Zimbabwe. Click here to read about previous winners.

Email from Julie Payne to The Communication Initiative on March 20 2009.