Shireen Abu Akleh Prize for Women Journalists
Applicant criteria
- No specific age required
- Both
Opportunity criteria
Opportunity description
Shireen Abu Akleh Prize
In a significant move to honor the bravery and determination of women journalists worldwide, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the International Francophone Press Union (UPF) have come together to establish a new annual prize. This prestigious award aims to shine a spotlight on the immense challenges and dangers faced by women in journalism, especially in an era where threats against them are escalating. The award is named in memory of the esteemed Palestinian journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, whose life was tragically cut short on May 11, 2022, while she was reporting live from the Jenin refugee camp. Her untimely death sent shockwaves through the journalistic community and underscored the perilous conditions under which many journalists operate.
By launching this award, the IFJ and UPF hope to not only commemorate Shireen Abu Akleh’s legacy but also to inspire and support women journalists who continue to report fearlessly in the face of adversity. The inaugural award ceremony is scheduled for December 2024, marking the beginning of an annual tradition that will celebrate and acknowledge the vital contributions of women journalists to the field of journalism and the broader quest for truth and justice.
Award of Shireen Abu Akleh
- The winner of the Shireen Abu Akleh Prize will receive a €5,000 cash award. The prize may be equally divided between two recipients.
Eligibility for Shireen Abu Akleh
- Open to women journalists and media professionals globally regardless of their nationalities, working languages, or media platforms.
- Candidates must hold a professional press card or similar recognised professional accreditation.
- They may be nominated by themselves, their media organisations, or third-party endorsements, accompanied by detailed descriptions of their journalistic contributions.
- The nature of the courage and commitment honoured will be at the discretion of the judges – but these could be qualities exhibited overcoming workplace challenges, as well as reporting in dangerous environments.
Nomination
Nominations should be sent by e-mail to the following addresses:
- International Federation of Journalists (IFJ):
- International Union of the French-speaking Press (UPF):
Benefits
- The winner of the Shireen Abu Akleh Prize will receive a €5,000 cash award. The prize may be equally divided between two recipients.
Eligibility criteria
- Open to women journalists and media professionals globally regardless of their nationalities, working languages, or media platforms.
- Candidates must hold a professional press card or similar recognised professional accreditation.
- They may be nominated by themselves, their media organisations, or third-party endorsements, accompanied by detailed descriptions of their journalistic contributions.
- The nature of the courage and commitment honoured will be at the discretion of the judges – but these could be qualities exhibited overcoming workplace challenges, as well as reporting in dangerous environments.