Founded in 1988, the prize is awarded every year in complete independence by the French National Consultative Commission on Human Rights (CNCDH) and rewards human rights defenders around the world. Each year, the CNCDH selects two themes. This year, the prize focused on fighting against human rights violations on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity and combating violence against women.
Besides the 5 nominees, the French National Consultative Commission on Human Rights has decided to distinguish the work of six other organizations worldwide, 2 of which are South Africans :
Sonke Gender Justice for its action in combating violence against women, preventing domestic and sexual violence and promoting gender equality.
The Gay and Lesbian Network for its fight against human rights violations on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.
His Excellency Mr Ambassador Jacques LAPOUGE organised a reception in their honour at the Residence of France in Pretoria on January the 31st during which He awarded them with the medal of the CNCDH. He paid tribute to the outstanding these two organisations are doing in South Africa. He also emphasized the importance of Human Rights for the French Diplomacy.
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