The United Kingdom and international partners have announced that Moldovan civil society organisation PromoLex will receive the 2026 Democracy Defenders Award, recognising its work
promoting democratic values and defending human rights in Moldova.
The award, established in 2016 under the Democracy Defender Initiative, honours organisations and individuals that make outstanding contributions to defending democracy and upholding the principles of the Helsinki Final Act across the OSCE region.
In a statement delivered to the Permanent Council, the initiative praised PromoLex for its role in strengthening civil society and advancing internationally recognised human rights standards in Moldova.
PromoLex is known for providing legal assistance, conducting strategic litigation, carrying out research, and monitoring human rights developments. The organisation has also become a leading voice in election observation, contributing to the transparency and integrity of electoral processes through independent monitoring, reporting, and advocacy for reforms aligned with international standards.
The 10th Anniversary Democracy Defender Award Presentation and Seminar will take place on 13 May 2026. Alongside the formal award ceremony, the event will feature expert panel discussions examining how civil society organisations can respond to democratic backsliding and help build democratic resilience across the OSCE region.
Organisers said invitations have already been distributed and encouraged delegations to attend the seminar and related events. Photo by Rodion Gavriloi, Wikimedia commons.
