Brussels, September 21, 2023 – Brussels City Hall was the setting for an extraordinary event on Thursday, September 21, 2023, as the International Henri La Fontaine Prize for Humanism was awarded to the courageous Afghan journalist in exile, Mrs. Lailuma Sadid. This prestigious accolade recognizes Ms. Sadid’s tireless work as a defender of human rights and her unwavering commitment to press freedom.
The ceremony, held under the presidency of Françoise Tulkens, former Vice President of the European Court of Human Rights and an associate member of the Royal Academy of Belgium, brought together a diverse audience from around the world to celebrate Lailuma Sadid’s courage and determination. Daniel Sotiaux, President of the Henri La Fontaine Foundation, and the foundation’s administrators opened the ceremony with enthusiasm, followed by Philippe Close, the Mayor of Brussels, who emphasized the importance of press freedom in a democratic society.
The day was punctuated by enchanting musical interludes that created an atmosphere of celebration and reflection. Next, a roundtable discussion titled “Women Who Resist at the Peril of Their Lives” was moderated by Éddy Caeckelberghs, an RTBF journalist, and highlighted the inspiring stories of courageous women such as Ava Basiri, an Iranian human rights activist and the recipient of the 2023 “Voice of the Voiceless” award, Sophie Bessis, historian, journalist, and essayist, and Rhodi Mellek, a Syrian Kurdish refugee in Belgium.
The climax of the event came with the moving speech by Françoise Tulkens, President of the sixth edition of the Henri La Fontaine Prize for Humanism, who underscored the crucial importance of Lailuma Sadid’s work in defending human rights and promoting freedom of expression in hostile environments.
Tension was palpable when the long-awaited moment arrived: the proclamation and presentation of the International Henri La Fontaine Prize for Humanism. Lailuma Sadid, the Afghan journalist in exile, was crowned the laureate, eliciting hearty applause from the audience. Her acceptance speech served as a powerful reminder of the significance of press freedom, especially in regions of the world where it is gravely threatened.
The evening concluded on a positive note with a lively reception, offering guests the opportunity for informal discussions with Lailuma Sadid and other event participants.
The Henri La Fontaine Foundation once again played a vital role in honoring those who strive for a better world. The 2023 International Henri La Fontaine Prize for Humanism undeniably left a lasting impression by celebrating the bravery and resilience of Lailuma Sadid, an exceptional Afghan journalist who embodies the fundamental values of freedom and human dignity. Her award is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the voice of truth and justice can never be silenced.
The entire NADOE team congratulates Mrs. Sadid for her accomplishment and we are proud to work alongside her.
Get new content delivered directly to your inbox.
nadoe.eu 