 "Anna Hazare awarded inaugural Allard Prize for International Integrity in Canada")
The University of British Columbia's Faculty of Law at Allard Hall presented Anna Hazare with the inaugural Allard Prize for International Integrity here, where India's social activist said that he hopes that the recognition will make his movement an example for the generations to come.
"My lifelong mission to fight corruption and promote transparency is stronger for having received this award," Hazare said at a special ceremony held here on Thursday night.
"I have never been attracted to money and wealth, but the Allard Prize will help me and all those that are working towards the same cause to continue the fight. I am hopeful that this international recognition will promote a movement for change that will endure beyond my lifetime for generations to come," he added.
Established in October, 2012 by UBC Law alumnus Mr. Peter A. Allard, QC, the Allard Prize is awarded to an individual, movement or organization that has shown exceptional courage and leadership in combating corruption, especially through promoting transparency, accountability and the rule of law.
Allard, while lauding Hazare's efforts to mitigate corruption and propagate government transparency, said that his dedication towards his movement will have a long-standing impact on human rights.
"We are honoured to present the inaugural Allard Prize to Mr. Hazare in recognition of his outstanding leadership and courage in his fight against corruption and for improved government transparency and accountability," said Mr. Allard. "His work exemplifies the values of the Allard Prize, and his lifelong record of service and dedication has made a significant and lasting impact on the advancement of human rights."
Meanwhile, UBC Law Dean Mary Anne Bobinski said that her department was honoured to present this award to a community leader who has fought for the protection of human rights.
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"UBC Law has a deep and longstanding history of advancing human rights," UBC Law Dean Mary Anne Bobinski said.
"Faculty members have been pioneers protecting the human rights of women, indigenous communities and the rights of victims of crime around the world. We are honoured to recognize the work of these community leaders in the fight against corruption and for the protection of human rights," Bobinski added.
Hazare received a $100,000 prize, as part of one of the world's largest awards recognizing efforts to combat corruption and to promote human rights.
The other finalists, Dr. Sima Samar, an internationally celebrated advocate for human and women's rights, and Global Witness, an organization campaigning against natural resource-related conflict and corruption and associated environmental and human rights abuses, were each awarded $25,000 for their efforts in protecting human rights and fighting corruption.