Asad Toor receives prestigious Tulip Award from Netherlands embassy

This year's prestigious award was presented to journalist Asad Ali Toor

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The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Pakistan held its annual Human Rights Tulip Award ceremony on Tuesday, recognising individuals and organizations for their exceptional efforts in advancing human rights in the country.

This year, the prestigious Human Rights Tulip Award was presented to journalist Asad Ali Toor for his outstanding contributions to press freedom, digital rights, and democratic rights in Pakistan.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Henny de Vries lauded Pakistan’s human rights defenders, acknowledging the significant challenges they face. She emphasised the importance of those working to protect fundamental rights, including religious freedom and freedom of expression, in an often difficult environment.

On receiving the award, Toor expressed his gratitude, saying, "Today is the biggest day of my life and career, as my work is being acknowledged by the international community. This award will not only encourage me but also make me realise the responsibility I carry from now on in the journey of reporting on the marginalized, especially those living in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and among minorities across Pakistan."

The Human Rights Tulip Award is accompanied by a grant for a small human rights project, which will help Toor continue his valuable work in advocating for human rights and social justice in the country.