Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 10, 2025 Refugees and migrants
Ukrainian humanitarian workers, the founder of a school for refugees in Tajikistan, a village elder in Cameroon, the founder of a women's organization in Iraq, and a businessman from Mexico have been named laureates of the 2025 Nansen Refugee Award. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) announced this today.
The award ceremony will take place in Geneva on December 16. The prize is awarded annually for achievements in protecting the rights of internally displaced persons and stateless persons. It is named after the Norwegian polar explorer, League of Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Fridtjof Nansen.
"We must take care of each other"
"The Nansen Refugee Award recognizes exceptional courage and humanity," said UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi. "This year's laureates remind us that even in the darkest times, compassion is essential. Their unwavering commitment to protecting and supporting displaced people is inspiring and hopeful. They embody the spirit of Nansen – the belief that every person forced to flee their home, wherever they may be, deserves dignity, safety, and hope."
At the global level, this year's laureate was Elder Martin Asia Sodea from Cameroon, a leader whose humanity and generosity have transformed the lives of tens of thousands of people. When refugees from the Central African Republic arrived in the village of Gado-Badzere, the locals did not turn their backs on them. At the initiative of Sodea and his family, the community provided land for the arrivals to live and farm, giving them the opportunity to get back on their feet. Thanks to his leadership, the small village became a symbol of solidarity—based on the belief that people in need deserve support and a place to feel safe again.
Sodea also inspired other traditional leaders to help refugees, which contributed to a change in attitudes toward them throughout the region. His message is simple but crucial: "We are all human beings, and we must take care of each other."
Regional winners
Four regional award winners were also announced.
"Proliska" is a Ukrainian organization, providing vital assistance More than 3.2 million people, often in the most dangerous and inaccessible areas of the country. After shelling and strikes, Proliska is often the first to come to the rescue, leaving no one without support.
Negara Nazari is an Afghan refugee and co-founder of the Ariana Learning Center in Tajikistan. A graduate of the DAFI scholarship program run by UNHCR with a degree in economics, she chose a path to helping others and founded a school for young Afghan refugees left without access to education.
Pablo Moreno Cadena is a Mexican businessman who has become a pioneer in refugee integration. As the head of MABE, one of the largest home appliance manufacturers, he actively employs and supports displaced people.
Taban Shoresh is a humanitarian worker, human rights activist, and founder of The Lotus Flower, an organization that supports women and girls affected by conflict and violence in Iraqi Kurdistan. Shoresh's family suffered during the genocide against the Kurds in northern Iraq, and she has dedicated herself to helping others in similar situations.
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