Six journalists have received the Doha Forum Award in recognition of their “collective courage and unwavering dedication” in covering conflict zones around the world. The prize – awarded annually to organisations or individuals that embody the values of diplomacy, dialogue and diversity – was presented by the Emir of Qatar at the start of the Forum’s annual meeting of business, political and diplomatic leaders in Doha on Saturday.
The Award honours journalists who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth – and highlights the critical importance of press freedom and the urgent need to protect journalists working in conflict zones. To recognise those who work to support journalists in conflict zones, the Award will support the Rory Peck Trust.
The six journalists include Gaza bureau chief Wael Al Dahdouh whose wife, children and Al Jazeera colleagues were killed by Israeli airstrikes. Also honoured were American photojournalist Dylan Collins of AFP, Motaz Azaiza whose images of Gaza at the start of the war with Israel reached millions on social media, as well as Lebanese journalists Christina Assi and Carmen Joukhdar and Sadaf Popalzai from Afghanistan.
The Executive Director of the Rory Peck Trust, Jon Williams, said “I join the Doha Forum in recognising the courage and commitment of Wael and his colleagues. From Gaza to Afghanistan, Sudan and now again in Syria, too often journalists pay a terrible price for ensuring we know the truth. The support of the Doha Forum Award will transform our ability to assist freelance journalists working in conflict zones around the world – and support them as they continue their vital work, enabling accountability and ensuring justice.”