High Commissioner on National Minorities

Max van der Stoel Award

Overview of previous recipients and the jury’s justification

2009 – Integration and Development Centre for Information and Research (IDC) (Ukraine)
Since its founding in 1997, this NGO has trained government officials and members of the police service in diversity management, monitored the press for hate speech, assisted formerly deported peoples and engaged in conflict prevention at the local level. Together with the Renaissance Foundation, the IDC has introduced a discretionary course entitled “Culture of Good Neighbourhood” in Crimean schools.

2007 – European Roma Rights Centre (ERRC) (Hungary)
Since its establishment in 1996, the NGO has put Roma equality issues firmly on the agenda in Europe and beyond. The ERRC has lobbied on behalf of Roma at international forums, successfully defended Roma rights in a number of landmark legal cases both internationally and in individual States, called for an end to segregation of Roma in schools, sought justice for Roma victims of hate crime and coercive sterilization, campaigned for adequate housing and advocated for Romani women’s rights.

2005 – “Memorial” International Historial Enlightenment, Human Rights and Humanitarian Society (Russian Federation)
In 1996, the scope of Memorial’s activities broadened to include the collection and dissemination of information about ethnic discrimination in large parts of the OSCE area. As well as the provision of legal advice and concrete assistance to people in need, Memorial’s monitoring work has also earned significant recognition in Russia and the international community.

2003 – Latvian Centre for Human Rights and Ethnic Studies
The Latvian Centre for Human Rights and Ethnic Studies, established in 1993, has developed a reputation for timely and informed research and commentary on such issues as citizenship, minority-language broadcasting, minority participation in public life and the application of international minority-related standards in Latvia.