By
The Edelstam Foundation announced in a press release today that The Edelstam Prize 2024 has been awarded to Mr Dawit Isaak, an Eritrean-Swedish journalist in recognition of his exceptional courage and dedication to human rights and freedom of expression. Isaak, who co-founded Setit, Eritrea’s first independent newspaper, was arrested in September 2001 during the Eritrean government’s major crackdown on media and dissidents in Eritrea. Since then, he has been detained incommunicado without charge, legal representation or trial, making him the world’s longest arbitrarily detained journalist along with other colleagues in the country.
The prize will be formally awarded on November 19, 2024, at the House of Nobility in Stockholm, Sweden. As Mr Isaak remains imprisoned and unable to attend, his daughter Betlehem Isaak, will accept the prize on his behalf.
Caroline Edelstam, Chair of the Edelstam Prize Jury, praised Isaak’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles and human rights advocacy before his detention and the insufferable experience he has been through since 2001. She noted that Isaak’s case underscores the violations of fundamental human rights, describing his indefinite detention without due process as untenable.
The Edelstam Prize, awarded by the Edelstam Foundation, is dedicated to honouring individuals who demonstrate extraordinary bravery in defending human rights.
Dawit Isaak’s recognition emphasises the need for global attention to his plight and other journalists enduring suppression for exercising their right to free speech.
