Funding Amount

Varies

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Democracy Award

Program Type: Annual recognition award (not a grant)

Overview: An annual award given by the NED Board of Directors to recognize the courageous and creative work of individuals and organizations that advance the cause of human rights and democracy around the world.

Recurrence: Annual (awarded yearly)

History:
The Democracy Award has been given annually since 1998, recognizing democracy champions globally across diverse causes including:

  • Heroes of Human Rights and Democracy

  • Press freedom advocates and journalists

  • Civil society movements

  • Anti-corruption activists

  • Tech trailblazers and digital rights defenders

  • Youth leaders in democracy movements
  • Recent Honorees:

  • 2025: China Digital Times, Campaign for Uyghurs

  • 2024: Regional Center for Human Rights (Ukraine), Tibet Action Institute, Waey Organization (Sudan)

  • 2023: Afghan Independent Media, NetFreedom Pioneers, Women of Iran, Individuals imprisoned or killed for democratic activism

  • 2022: Anti-Corruption Action Center, Center for Civil Liberties, Public Interest Journalism Lab, Ukrainian Volunteer Service
  • Award Symbol: The Democracy Award is a replica of the statue erected by student activists in Tiananmen Square, known as the "Goddess of Democracy."

    Geographic Scope: Global

    Contact:

  • Phone: (202) 378-9700

  • Email: INFO@NED.ORG

  • Address: 1201 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Suite 1100, Washington, DC 20004
  • Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    human-rights

    Categories

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