Council of Europe 7d ago

Originating in Slovenia, this inspiring initiative unites 300+ organisations across the EU to advocate for safe and accessible abortion. Their impact is undeniable: in 2025, they gathered over 1.1 million signatures, leading to a landmark European Parliament resolution and new commitments from the European Commission. The award worth €60,000 is presented by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe and the Government of Iceland, honoring bold initiatives that empower women everywhere. It’s named after Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, the first woman in the world elected as a head of state. Special recognition also goes to the runners-up: Girl Child Counselling Women Group (Kenya) and Sasane – Samrakshak Samuha (Nepal). Both doing incredible work to support vulnerable women and girls worldwide. Nearly 300 initiatives from around the globe were nominated this year.