Background
The W. Averell Harriman Democracy Award is NDI's highest honor, presented annually to an individual or organization that have demonstrated a commitment to democracy and human rights.
W. Averell Harriman was a politician who revered public life and respected the democratic arena of debate and competition. With this annual award, NDI pays tribute to Governor Harriman's legacy and his dedication to democracy and internationalism.
General Criteria
The Institute's Board of Directors considers the following factors when presenting the Award:
Sustained commitment. Recipient has advanced the cause of democracy and human rights for a sustained period.
Demonstrates moral integrity. Recipient embodies or reflects a respect for universal human values and has served as a catalyst for democratic transition, often at personal risk.
Engaged in the political process. Recipient is a leader in the political arena.
Recognized efforts or requires solidarity. NDI tries to balance its Awards by choosing recipients who are internationally recognized and those who are courageous, but lesser known, democrats in need of international solidarity and protection.
Represents larger political movement. Recipient represents an organization, party or coalition that has played a central role in advancing democratic change.
Connected to NDI's work. Recipient comes from countries or groups with which NDI has worked.
Highlight of Recipients
Past recipients of the Award have included: Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations; the Organization of American States; the eight political party leaders who negotiated the Northern Ireland peace agreement; Varela Project leader Oswaldo Payá of Cuba; Burmese democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi; Czech Republic President Vaclav Havel; President Thabo Mbeki of South Africa; President Eduard Shevardnadze of Georgia; Korean President Kim Young Sam; St. Petersburg Mayor Anatoly Sobchak; former Argentine President Raul Alfonsin; Chile's 1988 Free Election Movement; former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter; former U.S. Vice President Walter Mondale; Senator Edward Kennedy; former Senator George Mitchell; the late Lane Kirkland, president of the AFL-CIO; Linda and the late Peter Biehl of the Amy Biehl Foundation in South Africa; and then-U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Madeleine Albright.
Contact Information
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