What is the Human Rights Defenders Tulip?

The Dutch Government’s human rights award, the Human Rights Defenders Tulip has since 2008 been presented to an individual who has shown exceptional courage in protecting and promoting the rights of fellow human beings.

The winner receives a bronze statuette. In addition, the winner may submit a project proposal for possible funding for his or her work as a human rights defender. In addition, the winner is given the opportunity to meet with relevant stakeholders in Europe.

An independent jury selects the winner. The Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs presents the Human Rights Defenders Tulip award.

Nominees can be from any country and anyone can make an nomination. Nominees should be individuals (not organisations), whose daily work involves the promotion or protection of human rights by peaceful means. They should be individuals who have faced or are at risk of facing negative, personal consequences because of their human rights work. They are individuals who could benefit from the recognition and visibility of winning the prize.