The Samir Kassir Award for Freedom of Press (جائزة سمير قصير لحرية الصحافة) is an annual award established by the European Union in 2006[1] to honor the memory of Lebanese journalist Samir Kassir, who was assassinated on June 2, 2005, in Beirut.
[2] The award recognizes journalists from North Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf who have distinguished themselves through the quality of their work and their commitment to human rights, democracy, good governance, and civic engagement.
[1][3] The establishment of the Samir Kassir Award was announced on October 7, 2005, by the European Commission during a press conference in Beirut.
The award was created to support journalists covering issues related to human rights, good governance, the rule of law, the fight against corruption, freedom of expression, democratic development, and citizen participation.
Jury members have included journalists, media professionals, human rights investigators, researchers, civil society representatives, and former government officials recognized for their contributions to advancing human rights.