https://www.amnesty.org.ph/ignite-awards/
This landmark initiative was created to recognize the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment of individuals and organizations who have made a profound impact on human rights by changing peoples lives, policies, activism, and accountability through their work.
Ignite Awards aim not only to give due recognition to HRDs, but also to inspire a nation. By highlighting the stories and achievements of ordinary people doing extraordinary human rights work, it seeks to reshape public perception around human rights. Ignite Awards stand as a testament that anyone — regardless of background, status, or profession — can be a powerful catalyst for change.
For over 60 years, Amnesty International has been at the forefront of global human rights work, pushing back on attempts by governments to silence dissent, suppress opposition, and curtail basic rights and freedoms. In this ongoing struggle, HRDs have played a central role — often at great personal risk — to uphold the dignity and rights of others.
Human rights defenders are not just activists — they are teachers, farmers, journalists, artists, students, lawyers, healthcare workers, and everyday people who choose to stand up when it matters most.
Ignite Awarding categories represent the different layers of human rights work in the Philippines. Whether through organized advocacy, grassroots mobilization, youth leadership, or creative expression, Ignite Awards for Human Rights shines a light on those who dare to speak truth to power and defend the vulnerable and marginalized — one act of courage at a time.
Awarding Categories
The Ignite Awards for Human Rights honor individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the protection, promotion, and realization of human rights in the Philippines. These awards are divided into three distinct categories, each celebrating unique forms of impact — from grassroots activism and policy reform to youth leadership and artistic expression.
Most Distinguished Human Rights Defender Individual and Organization
This award honors individuals and organizations whose exceptional work has significantly advanced the cause of human rights in the Philippines. It is given to those whose efforts have uplifted the lives of rights holders — particularly the marginalized and oppressed — by driving meaningful change in activism, public policy, and community empowerment. Awardees in this category have demonstrated a profound and lasting impact on people’s lives through their unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human dignity. Their contributions have helped shape a more humane and inclusive society, making them true pillars of the human rights movement.
Outstanding Young Human Rights Defender
This award is presented to a young individual, age 25 (as of 28 May of the awarding year) or below, who has made an exceptional contribution to the advancement of human rights in the Philippines. It recognizes young leaders who have emerged as prime movers and influencers within their communities and among their peers — mobilizing youth, raising awareness, and taking bold action to defend and promote human rights. These outstanding young HRDs embody the spirit of activism, innovation, and courage, proving that age is no barrier to making a powerful impact.
Art that Matters
This award is given to artists who use their craft as a powerful tool to defend freedoms and promote human rights. It honors individuals whose artistic expression has played a vital role in revolutionizing human rights education, awareness, and advocacy.
Each season, Art That Matters highlights a specific genre of art. For Season 4, the genre is Visual Arts — recognizing creators whose paintings, illustrations, installations, digital works, and other visual mediums have sparked dialogues, inspired activism, and brought human rights issues to the general public.
