Overview
- The Kuratorium selected Alinejad unanimously from 30 applications, citing her sustained defense of freedom, equality, and human rights.
- She has campaigned for years against coercive measures in Iran, particularly compulsory veiling and restrictions on women and girls.
- The award will be presented on 31 March, with the laudation delivered by Bundestag President Julia Klöckner.
- The Iranian-born journalist, who has lived in the United States since 2009, works under significant personal risk and often requires extensive security.
- Alinejad dedicated the honor to people in Iran striving for a free society, and the biennial prize follows a 2023 launch that was canceled and later reconstituted.