The U.S. Department of State has recognized exceptional women through the International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award, which has been presented annually since 2007. This year's recipients continue the tradition of highlighting courage, strength, and leadership with their significant contributions to society.
Human rights defender Henriette Da, with her background as a sociologist and human rights advocate, has made strides in Burkina Faso. She is a founding member of the country's Association for Religious Tolerance and Intercommunity Dialogue and has served as president of several civil society organizations. Da was appointed President of the National Human Rights Commission in 2018, where she has been an outspoken advocate for the people of Burkina Faso.
Amit Soussana has courageously used her own experience as a hostage in Israel to advocate for survivors. An attorney specializing in intellectual property law, she has raised awareness about the conditions faced by hostages of Hamas, following the October 7, 2023 attacks.
Major Velena Iga from Papua New Guinea has worked for over a decade against violence towards women and human trafficking. Her work includes the "1-Tok" counseling hotline and a training manual on modern slavery and human trafficking, helping to implement systemic changes in legal and social frameworks.
Angelique Songco, known as "Mama Ranger," has led efforts to protect the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in the Philippines. Her work has combined maritime law enforcement with conservation, resulting in a significant decrease in illegal activities and protecting local biodiversity.
Georgiana Pascu has fought for the rights of institutionalized children and adults with disabilities in Romania. Over 25 years, she has influenced legislation and secured safe treatment for many, playing a role in notable cases related to human rights.
Zaib Musa Loro Bakhit has a decade of experience in women's rights in fragile and resource-poor environments. As founder and Executive Director of Women for Justice and Equality in South Sudan, she has pioneered Women, Peace, and Security programs at the grassroots level.
Journalist Namini Wijedasa of Sri Lanka has focused on combating corruption through investigative reporting for over 30 years. She continues to advocate for transparency and accurate public discourse despite restrictive media legislation.
Amat Al-Salam Abdullah Abdo Al-Hajj, through the Abductees’ Mothers Association in Yemen, has highlighted the plight of thousands of detainees. By mobilizing families, she has played a critical role in documenting abductions and securing the release of some individuals. Her remarks to the UN Security Council emphasized the humanitarian aspect of the conflict, stating, "We are speaking of civilians who have not participated in the conflict."
The work of these women underscores their vital role in promoting human rights, justice, and equity in their respective countries.