The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is an independent global award, granted by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity and includes a financial prize of $1 million. It is awarded annually on February 4, the International Day for Human Fraternity. The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity recognizes individuals, organizations, and other entities for their profound contributions to human fraternity. The winner(s) are honored at a ceremony convened in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The award was established in February 2019 to mark the historic meeting in Abu Dhabi between the head of the Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis, and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, His Eminence Professor Ahmed Al-Tayeb, where the two great figures signed the Document on Human Fraternity. Pope Francis and Grand Imam Al-Tayeb were the first honorary recipients of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. The award is named in honor of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late ruler of Abu Dhabi and founder of the United Arab Emirates, whose values of humility, humanitarianism, and respect epitomize the enduring ideals the award seeks to celebrate.
JURY PANEL MEMBERS ARE SELECTED ACCORDING TO EXPERTISE.
Zayed Award recipient(s) are decided upon by an independent judging committee, appointed annually by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity. The judging committee is comprised of a range of experts and celebrated figures in public service from around the globe – individuals who are imbued with wisdom and deep investment in the cause of peaceful coexistence.
Each year, the award will be decided by:
- An individual selected by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar.
- An individual selected by the Pope of the Catholic Church.
- An individual selected by the Secretary-General of the United Nations.
- Two members selected by the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity from among world personalities recognized for their endeavours to promote tolerance and peace.
- The Secretary-General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity.
