The Martin Ennals Foundation is showing recognition for journalists who investigate human rights violations, and the crucial contribution of their work in promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law.

In Africa, where the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights recently expressed serious concern about the growing risks faced by individuals, groups or organisations working to promote and protect human rights, and impunity for threats, attacks and intimidation has a negative impact on the work and safety of human rights activists.

For the past sixteen years, the Martin Ennals Foundation has awarded an individual who has demonstrated ‘notable human rights work and who is in dire need of protection because of their work’ with its Annual Human Rights Award.

Eligible candidates are to be selected by a jury of representatives from several prominent human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. Although a cash prize will also be awarded, the primary objective of the nomination is to provide protection to an endangered journalist and/or human rights activist by raising public awareness and attracting international media attention.

Journalists across the globe involved in human rights activities are invited to apply or to participate by nominating a particularly noteworthy candidate. The deadline for nominations is December 9, 2009, and more information is available at the Martin Ennals Foundation’s website at www.martinennalsaward.org/index.html.