Nizar Banat Award for Human Rights Defenders – Honoring the brave, amplifying the voice of truth

About the Award

The “Nizar Banat Award for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders at Risk” is an initiative launched by the group Lawyers for Justice.

The award aims to honor human rights defenders in Palestine who face oppression and authoritarianism with courage and determination.
It is grounded in the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders (1998), to promote the role of defenders in upholding freedom of expression, justice, and accountability.

About Nizar Banat

Nizar Khalil Mohammad Banat was a Palestinian political and human rights activist born in 1978 in the city of Hebron, in the occupied West Bank. His family originates from the depopulated village of Ajjur.

Nizar was known for his bold positions and outspoken criticism of the Palestinian Authority, particularly regarding corruption and human rights violations.

He was one of the most prominent independent voices who used social media platforms to share his message, publishing videos and posts that criticized official policies and exposed issues of corruption.

Award Objectives

To offer eternal and historic recognition of the martyr Nizar Banat

To grant annual recognition to Palestinian human rights and freedoms defenders

To promote, encourage, and create a supportive environment for human rights and freedom advocacy in Palestine.

General Framework of the Award

Submission Date: The award is presented annually on June 24, marking the anniversary of the martyrdom of Nizar Banat.

Selection Process: The recipient is selected by a decision of the Jury Committee. The winner’s name is recorded in the official Nizar Banat Award Registry, and they receive a Certificate of Recognition along with a symbolic financial grant of $1,500 USD in support of their continued work in the field of human rights.

Launch Timeline: The first edition of the award will be officially announced on May 22, 2025, and the nomination period will remain open until June 5, 2025.

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More news

26 May 2025

Opening of Nominations

Receiving Nomination Applications

10 June 2025

Nomination Deadline

Start of Evaluation and Winner Selection

24 June 2025

Announcement of the Winner

Award Announcement and Prize Presentation

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