Award: Green Party parliamentary group in NRW launches human rights prize

The Green Party's parliamentary group in North Rhine-Westphalia is establishing a new human rights award to honor dedicated individuals and organizations within the state. The prize money, totaling 3,000 euros, will be funded by the deputies themselves, underscoring their commitment to the cause. The award is set to be presented for the first time around International Human Rights Day on December 10.

Landtag Vice-President Berivan Aymaz highlighted the global crisis in human rights, citing the rise of authoritarian regimes, violations of international law in regions like Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan, and increasing attacks against queer people and women. She emphasized that human rights are defended not only in parliaments but also daily by committed individuals on the ground. Aymaz stressed the importance of recognizing this local engagement, particularly in light of the resurgence of right-wing and anti-democratic forces.

The Green Party also views climate protection as a human rights issue, arguing that climate change directly impacts people's fundamental rights. This perspective broadens the scope of the award, encouraging nominations that address environmental justice alongside traditional human rights advocacy.

Individuals, initiatives, organizations, or projects based in North Rhine-Westphalia that have made significant contributions to human rights are eligible to apply or be nominated until September 7. Television presenter Bettina Böttinger, a long-time advocate for human rights, will be part of the honorary jury. Böttinger expressed her "deep admiration" for those who risk much for human rights, noting that the fight extends beyond distant countries to include Europe and the continent itself. This new award joins other human rights prizes in North Rhine-Westphalia, such as those from the Tonhalle Düsseldorf and the Gerhart-Baum-Stiftung, aiming to increase visibility and support for human rights work.