International Simón Bolívar Prize Explained

International Simón Bolívar Prize
Sponsor:Government of Venezuela
Date:1983
Presenter:UNESCO
Reward:US$ 25,000
Website:Official website

The International Simón Bolívar Prize serves to recognise activities of outstanding merit that, in accordance with the ideals of Latin American independence hero Simón Bolívar, "contribute to the freedom, independence and dignity of peoples and to the strengthening of a new international economic, social and cultural order".[1]

The Prize is awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) every second year, on 24 July (the anniversary of Bolívar's birth). In addition to the intrinsic distinction bestowed on recipients, the award comes with a sum of money (currently USD $25,000), determined and donated by the government of Venezuela.

Prize winners are selected by the unanimous decision a jury of seven "eminent persons"  - five representing the regions of the world, one chosen by the Venezuelan authorities, and a representative of the director-general  - from a list of candidates submitted by UNESCO member states and associate members. Both individuals and institutions are eligible as candidates.

Laureates

The following persons and organisations have been recognised by the International Simón Bolívar Prize since the scheme's inception in 1983:[2]

Year Recipient Country
1983
1985
1988
1990 Czechoslovakia
1992
1996
1998 Mário Soares
Milad Hanna

2000
2004

Notes and References

  1. Web site: International UNESCO/Simón Bolívar Prize . 2 April 2013 . UNESCO.
  2. Web site: List of the winners of the International Simon Bolivar Prize . . 2 April 2013.