THE WORLD IS CHANGING.
These are challenging times for justice and human rights, with battles over natural and other resources, rising inequality, increasing movement of people within and across borders, ongoing crises and conflicts, and unlawful actions by states against protest and dissent. More and more people are striving to get their voices heard – speaking out online or in the streets. We are outraged but we stay hopeful, we roll with the punches. Despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we stay steadfast to our cause. We give importance to our freedoms in the name of those who fight many different battles towards a world where everyone enjoys all human rights.
How Ignite began
In celebration of the movement’s anniversary on 28 May 2017, Amnesty International Philippines launched Ignite Awards for Human Rights — first ever award-giving body in the country that exclusively honors Human Rights Defenders (HRDs).
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 Awards for Human Rights serve as a tribute to HRDs. It is a symbol of gratitude from Amnesty International Philippines, and a celebration of bravery and hope. In honoring their work, we strengthen our collective voices to carry on with our fight for peace, justice, equality, and human rights for all.
There is always someone somewhere speaking out and standing up for another.
Amnesty International Philippines believes that inspiring people into taking action on behalf of those whose rights have been violated or abused ensures that no one is ever left behind, alone, Nor forgotten.
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.
eligibility requirement for the awarding categories
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.
Nominations
On 28 May 2025, Ignite Awards for Human Rights Season 4 was launched, and the call for nominations was opened to the public. Each category has its dedicated nomination form.
Anyone can nominate an organization or an individual as long as they use the nomination forms released at the start of the season. You can choose to nominate on all categories or just one for your chosen category.
Season 4’s theme is #BilangTibak, Amnesty International Philippines’ local campaign to Protect The Protest. HRDs are always at the frontline of political and social change. This season, we are looking for individuals and organizations who have courageously led protests that challenge the status quo. HRDs who have stood at the frontlines of political and social change, responding to injustice with bold action and a vision for a more just society.
Read more about #BilangTibak here.
The Ignite Awards for Human Rights Board of Judges will be guided by the following criteria:
- Impact of human rights work (40%)
- Coverage of human rights work (40%)
- Credibility (20%)
TO MAKE A NOMINATION, FOLLOW THESE LINKS
The CVs accepted during the nominations process will initially be examined for eligibility by the Ignite Awards for Human Rights Selection Committee. If any additional information is needed, an Ignite Project Staff shall reach out to eligible candidates for a brief interview over the phone or personally. Once a short list of eligible candidates are finalized, this will then be endorsed to the Board of Judges for deliberations.
The Board of Judges will conduct deliberation sessions based on the short list of eligible candidates submitted by the Selection Committee until the finalists are determined. The Board of Judges shall then give their scores based on the above criteria.
Ignite Awards for Human Rights deadline for submission of nominations usually close on the 30 November of the year the nominations were opened, which may be extended accordingly with proper rounds of announcements.
After deliberations and scoring, the list of Ignite Awards for Human Rights winners shall be endorsed by the Board of Judges to Amnesty International Philippines Board of Trustees for confirmation. Official announcement of winners are issued on 28 May of the awarding year.
At a time when defending human rights is both vital and courageous, the Ignite Awards for Human Rights serve as a beacon of hope, recognition, and solidarity.
By nominating a human rights defender today, you help shine a light on stories that matter — stories of resistance, resilience, and real change.
Together, let us honor those who dare to stand up, speak out, and ignite a human rights future for all.