The U.S. Department of State has honored eight extraordinary individuals with the Secretary of State’s Human Rights Defender Award. These courageous advocates have demonstrated exceptional leadership, impact, and dedication to defending human rights and fundamental freedoms worldwide, often at great personal risk.
Among the awardees are champions for transparency, accountability, labor rights, the protection of marginalized populations, and the release of individuals unjustly detained. One recipient, Rufat Safarov of Azerbaijan, remains unjustly detained, prompting calls for his immediate release.
Ceremony Highlights:
U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken hosted a recognition ceremony in partnership with the McCain Institute to highlight the honorees’ inspiring stories and their relentless pursuit of justice.
2024 Award Recipients:
- Mary Ann Abunda (Kuwait)
A former victim of migrant worker abuse, Ms. Abunda is an advocate for migrant workers’ rights. Her efforts have led to the passage of Kuwait’s 2015 Domestic Workers’ Law and the development of global networks and resources for migrant workers, including legal aid and shelter access. - Amparo Carvajal (Bolivia)
With over 50 years of activism, Ms. Carvajal co-founded Bolivia’s Permanent Human Rights Assembly (APDHB). At 85, she continues to fight for justice, undeterred by health challenges or government pressure. - Aida Dzhumanazarova (Kyrgyz Republic)
A legal consultant and advocate for civil society, Ms. Dzhumanazarova has worked to empower NGOs in the Kyrgyz Republic and promote laws fostering an enabling environment for civil society. - Mang Hre Lian (Burma)
Mr. Lian leads projects at the Chin Human Rights Organization, focusing on election monitoring, human rights documentation, and journalist training in Burma. - Thulani Maseko (Eswatini) (Posthumous)
A lawyer and civil rights advocate, Mr. Maseko dedicated his life to fostering democracy in Eswatini. His legacy includes defending marginalized groups, advancing education rights, and founding platforms for peaceful dialogue. - Ebenezer Peegah (Ghana)
As the founder of Rightify Ghana, Mr. Peegah is a leading advocate for LGBTQI+ equality, engaging in campaigns to counter anti-LGBTQI+ violence and supporting at-risk communities. - Juana Ruiz (Colombia)
Ms. Ruiz is an artist and leader who founded ASVIDAS, a group advocating for survivors of gender-based violence in Colombia. She also established the Museum of Art and Memory of Mampujan to honor her community’s resilience in the face of violence and displacement. - Rufat Safarov (Azerbaijan)
Mr. Safarov heads Defense Line, documenting politically motivated arrests, corruption, and torture in Azerbaijan. A former prosecutor turned activist, he has endured imprisonment for his advocacy and remains detained as of December 2024.
Significance:
This year’s awardees exemplify the bravery and commitment of human rights defenders globally. Their work underscores the need for collective action to protect and advance human rights, particularly for the most vulnerable.