Ukraine and its civil organizations, along with the country’s president Volodymyr Zelensky, are central to this year’s Sakharov Prize conversations. The prize, awarded by the European Parliament, honors a sustained contribution to protecting freedom of conscience and human rights. This year’s winner will be announced in the third week of October and will recognize efforts that defend fundamental freedoms across borders. The candidacy list reflects a broad spectrum of courage and commitment to human rights on multiple fronts.
Among the nominees is Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, noted for controversial disclosures that sparked global debate about transparency and accountability in governance. Also on the table is Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American journalist who was killed during an Israeli operation in the occupied West Bank while reporting on the conflict. The Colombian Truth Commission, established as part of the peace process, and Sonia Guajajara, a Brazilian indigenous leader and activist, are recognized for their work to advance truth, justice, and the rights of indigenous communities. The European Parliament announced these nominations and highlighted the diverse perspectives represented by civil society and national institutions alike.
With Zelensky’s candidacy drawing strong support from several political groups, the award landscape reflects a debate over who should symbolize Ukrainian resilience since the February invasion. The decision process features a balance between honoring national leadership and elevating broader civil society efforts inside Ukraine and abroad.
One camp, including the European People’s Party and the Conservatives and Reformists group, argues that Zelensky embodies the courage and sustained commitment of Ukrainians who chose to stay and defend their country. They describe him as an inspiration for both Ukrainians and Europeans facing aggression.
Another camp, comprising the social democrats and Liberals of Renew Europe, emphasizes Ukrainian civil society and the state’s networks in providing emergency relief and safeguarding human rights and democratic freedoms. They advocate recognizing the roles of civil initiatives and the institutions that support them in crisis times.
As a result, the likely field of representation includes a powerful mix. The Ukrainian State Emergency Services and the Yellow Ribbon Civil Resistance Movement feature prominently, alongside regional leaders like Melitopol mayor Ivan Fedorov. Also highlighted are Oleksandra Matviychuk, a respected human rights lawyer who leads the Center for Civil Liberties, and Yulia Pajevska, a frontline volunteer and paramedic.
The Greens have put forward Sonia Guajajara, whose advocacy centers on Indigenous rights and land protection. Her work has drawn attention to serial challenges posed by state forces attempting to dispossess Indigenous communities of their ancestral territories.
From the left, the Colombian Truth Commission’s legacy is showcased. This body forms part of the Comprehensive System of Truth, Justice, Reparations and Non-Repetition created under the 2016 peace agreement, aimed at defending the rights of millions affected by Colombia’s long internal conflict.
Shireen Abu Akleh’s nomination spotlights longstanding journalism and the defense of free expression. A veteran correspondent for Al Jazeera for 25 years, she became a symbol of risk-taking reporting in conflict zones and a global advocate for press freedom after her death in May.
Julian Assange’s candidacy marks a dialogue about information disclosure, accountability, and the role of media transparency in modern democracies. The discussion reflects the wider debate around how the Truth and accountability can be pursued in complex international conflicts.
Since 1988, the European Parliament has awarded the Sakharov Prize, named after Andrei Sakharov, the Soviet physicist and outspoken defender of human rights. The prize carries a monetary award of 50,000 euros and serves as a platform for voices advocating for freedom and dignity around the world.
Over the years, the prize has celebrated leaders and movements that have left a lasting impact on human rights. Past laureates include Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, the Spanish platform ¡Basta Ya!, and various figures who opposed oppression and supported democratic values. The award reinforces the Parliament’s commitment to supporting those who defend civil liberties and justice, from regional struggles to global campaigns.