Free Expression Awards 2026
April 8, 2026
Festival Gabo 2026
April 8, 2026
The IPI‑IMS 2026 Press Freedom Awards are a joint initiative by the International Press Institute (IPI) and the International Media Support (IMS) network to honour journalists, media organisations, and press freedom defenders whose work upholds freedom of expression under difficult and dangerous conditions. The awards highlight courageous reporting, principled resistance to censorship, and impactful efforts to strengthen press freedom worldwide.
The call for nominations invites submissions from around the world across multiple categories, focusing on individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions during the 2025–2026 period. Recognised work typically includes investigative journalism, frontline reporting in conflict zones, legal advocacy for media rights, digital press freedom initiatives, and community media efforts that amplify underrepresented voices. Winners are selected by a committee of seasoned press freedom experts, media practitioners, and civil society leaders.
The awards ceremony provides a high‑visibility platform for honourees, reinforcing global attention on threats to journalism and celebrating those who have demonstrated exceptional resilience and impact. Past recipients have included reporters operating under repression, media organisations that sustained independent reporting under attack, and advocates who have advanced legal protections for journalists. The 2026 awards continue this tradition, drawing nominations from diverse regions and media environments.
Event: IPI‑IMS 2026 Press Freedom Awards — Honouring Courage in Journalism
Nomination Period: Open for submissions into 2026
Hosts: International Press Institute & International Media Support Network
Focus: Recognition of journalists, media outlets, and press freedom defenders whose work has significantly advanced freedom of expression under pressure.
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