In a move to honor the memory of two brave journalists who lost their lives while reporting on conflicts, the French government has announced that it will award the Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize for Courage in Journalism for the third time in early November 2025. The prize is awarded annually by France's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to recognize outstanding work by journalists and photojournalists who have risked their lives to inform the public, particularly in areas of conflict or crisis.
The prize aims to distinguish between journalists and photojournalists who have demonstrated exceptional courage, commitment, and professionalism in the face of adversity. The award is a testament to France's unwavering commitment to defending freedom of the press and paying tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of their work.
In 2023, French journalist Arman Soldin was tragically killed while working as an AFP correspondent in Mali. His work had shed light on the harsh realities of Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and his legacy continues to inspire journalists around the world. The prize also honors Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, who was assassinated in 2006 for her fearless reporting on corruption, human rights abuses, and the war in Chechnya.
In 2024, the jury recognized the work of Yuval Abraha and Basel Adra, both Israeli-Palestinian journalists who had produced a powerful documentary, "No Other Land," which won an Oscar in 2025. Their work highlighted the complex issues surrounding Israel's settlements in the West Bank and shed light on the importance of telling these stories.
This year's prize will be awarded to a journalist or photojournalist who has demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment to reporting on conflicts, crises, or human rights issues. The winner will receive a lump-sum prize of €10,000, which must be used to finance a project that promotes their work.
Journalists interested in applying for the 2025 prize can submit their applications through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' website using a downloadable application form. Applications are due by August 30, 2025, at midnight.
The Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize is a testament to France's commitment to protecting journalists and photojournalists who risk their lives to tell important stories. This year's prize will undoubtedly recognize the outstanding work of a brave journalist or photojournalist who has demonstrated exceptional courage and dedication in the face of adversity.
By honoring these individuals, France aims to inspire future generations of journalists to continue telling the stories that need to be told, even in the most challenging circumstances. The Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize will undoubtedly remain a powerful symbol of the enduring importance of a free press and the brave journalists who risk everything to tell the truth.
The prize is part of France's broader efforts to support journalists and photojournalists around the world, particularly in areas of conflict or crisis. As the international community continues to grapple with the challenges of a rapidly changing world, the Anna Politkovskaya-Arman Soldin Prize will undoubtedly play an important role in recognizing and celebrating the bravery and dedication of those who risk everything to tell the stories that need to be told.