Beirut: The European Union and Samir Kassir Foundation have officially launched the 20th edition of the Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of the Press. This annual award commemorates the Lebanese journalist and writer Samir Kassir, who was tragically assassinated in 2005.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the award has been a staple in recognizing journalistic excellence since its inception in 2006. It has attracted over 3,600 candidates from the Middle East, the Gulf, and North Africa, with 55 journalists honored to date. The award highlights the significant role of a free press in maintaining democracy and countering oppression and misinformation globally, emphasized by Sandra De Waele, the Ambassador of the European Union to Lebanon.
Acting President of the Samir Kassir Foundation, Malek Mrowa, expressed that this edition seeks to honor the courage of journalists who continue to report on critical issues despite challenging circumstances. The award aims to shine a light on the essential work of journalists amid ongoing struggles and emerging changes.
The competition is open to professional journalists from North Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf. Participants can submit their entries until April 1, 2025, in one of three categories: Opinion Article, Investigative Article, and Audiovisual News Report. The topics must include rule of law, human rights, good governance, anti-corruption efforts, freedom of expression, democratic development, or citizen participation. Each category winner will receive a prize of £10,000.
A panel of seven media professionals from the Arab and European regions, along with a European Union observer, will judge the entries. The winners will be announced during a ceremony in Beirut on June 3, 2025, marking a poignant tribute to Samir Kassir on the anniversary of his assassination.