Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize for Courage in Journalism

Published by Abinaidah Chaseba

Deadline: 30 August 2024

Open to: Journalists and photojournalists from any country.

Benefits: The prize offers recognition for journalistic courage, honoring reporters who have shown bravery in covering sensitive topics, especially in hostile conditions.

DESCRIPTION

The second Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize for Courage in Journalism will be awarded in early November 2024, marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, established in 2013 by the United Nations at France’s initiative as a tribute to Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, French journalists who were murdered in Mali.

The prize distinguishes the work of journalists and photojournalists committed to carrying out their essential role of spreading information, particularly in crisis or conflict theatres.

By awarding this prize, France reaffirms its constant commitment to defending freedom of the press and pays homage to two figures who were killed in the line of duty and symbolize journalistic courage. One of those figures is Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya who, liek six of her colleagues, paid with her life for her investigations published in Novaya Gazeta on corruption, human rights violations and the war in Chechnya. The other figure is Arman Soldin, a French-Bosnian photojournalist for AFP who was killed in the field on 9 May 2023. His work helped inform the entire world of the reality of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

ELIGIBILITY

This call is open to journalists from any country who are actively working in war zones or covering stories in highly restricted or dangerous environments for press freedom. There are no specific age or nationality restrictions, but the prize focuses on those showing significant bravery in their work.

BENEFITS

Recipients of the Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize will receive recognition and public acknowledgment for their courageous work in journalism, contributing to raising awareness about the importance of press freedom. Specific monetary or non-monetary benefits related to the award have not been disclosed but will be detailed at a later stage.

HOW TO APPLY?

To apply, journalists are required to submit their application through the official website of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. Candidates must provide documentation of their work, particularly those that highlight their courage in challenging press environments. Journalists who would like to apply for the 2024 edition of the Prize can send their applications, in French or English, to presse.dcp@diplomatie.gouv.fr.

For further information, please visit the official website.