The founder and the director of Digital Rights Foundation, Nighat Dad has been awarded Human Rights Tulip Award 2016. Foreign Minister of Netherlands Bert Koenders selected Nighat as the eventual winner. He will present the award to Pakistani digital activist along with a bronze tulip-shaped statue on International Human Rights Day on 10th December 2016 at The Hague. Moreover, she will also be handed over prize money of €100,000 ($111000).
Following is an image of bronze tulip-shaped sculpture:
The Human Rights Tulip Awards take place every year where individuals as well as organizations from all over the world are recognized for their diligent efforts to promote the human rights in an innovative manner.
Foreign Minister of Netherlands Bert Koenders appreciated the efforts of Nighat Dad towards the protection of human rights in Pakistan. While praising her efforts, he said:
“Human rights defenders are modern-day heroes. Despite the many threats she has received, Nighat Dad continues to fight to improve adherence to human rights in Pakistan in a unique and innovative way. Ms Dad is a pioneer who is working to remove everyday obstacles to internet access, especially those that affect women”
He further stated:
“Freedom of expression is under pressure in Pakistan. Increasing restrictions are being placed on the digital freedoms of individuals and civil society organizations alike. Ms Dad is a staunch defender of digital rights and the importance of protecting women and girls and marginalized groups on social media. Mr Koenders hopes that this prize will serve as a gesture of support for the freedom of internet users, especially women”
About Nighat Dad and her Foundation
Nighat Dad is a lawyer, digital activist, researcher and an independent development consultant. She is known for supporting online safety and access to the internet in Pakistan and across the world.
Digital Rights Foundation was founded in 2012. The non-profit organization is intended to teach and promote digital rights, particularly for women. Primarily, it educates the women on how to respond to online harassment.
In addition, the organization also battles against regulation giving government bodies’ extensive powers of investigation online. Nighat Dad stated:
“We tell Internet users how to adjust their privacy settings, to make sure they have secure connections, change their passwords regularly and not to share unnecessary information”
Moreover, she also added:
“Women should come seek help if they are targeted and not feel ashamed”
This is not the first time Nighat is nominated for an award. She was awarded the Atlantic Council Digital Freedom Award 2016 for advancing and defending the cause of freedom. Furthermore, she was also among six ‘next generation leaders’ named by TIME Magazine last year.
Source: Government Netherlands
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