UBC Law Awards First-ever Allard Prize for International Integrity to Indian Corruption Fighter Anna Hazare

VANCOUVER, Canada, September 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --



The University of British Columbia's Faculty of Law at Allard Hall presented Anna Hazare, one of India's most influential social activists, with the inaugural Allard Prize for International Integrity at a special ceremony last night.

The $100,000 prize is one of the world's largest awards recognizing efforts to combat corruption and to promote human rights.

"My lifelong mission to fight corruption and promote transparency is stronger for having received this award," said Mr. Hazare. "I have never been attracted to money and wealth, but the Allard Prize will help me and all those that are working towards the same cause to continue the fight. I am hopeful that this international recognition will promote a movement for change that will endure beyond my lifetime for generations to come."

Established in October 2012 by UBC Law alumnus Mr. Peter A. Allard, QC, the Allard Prize is awarded to an individual, movement or organization that has shown exceptional courage and leadership in combating corruption, especially through promoting transparency, accountability and the rule of law.

"We are honoured to present the inaugural Allard Prize to Mr. Hazare in recognition of his outstanding leadership and courage in his fight against corruption and for improved government transparency and accountability," said Mr. Allard.  "His work exemplifies the values of the Allard Prize, and his lifelong record of service and dedication has made a significant and lasting impact on the advancement of human rights."

For decades, Anna Hazare has led successful movements across India to enhance government transparency and investigate and prosecute official corruption. TIME Magazine named the 2011 movement he started one of the Top News Stories of 2011.

The other finalists, Dr. Sima Samar, an internationally celebrated advocate for human and women's rights, and Global Witness, an organization campaigning against natural resource-related conflict and corruption and associated environmental and human rights abuses, were each awarded $25,000 for their efforts in protecting human rights and fighting corruption.

After a comprehensive review process, the three finalists were selected from more than 100 nominations received, representing 48 countries around the world.

Learn more about the Allard Prize for International Integrity at: http://www.allardprize.org.

For further information:
Simmi Puri 
UBC's Faculty of Law at Allard Hall 
Phone: +1-604-822-4172 
Email: puri@law.ubc.ca
Miriam Sherkey
Hill+Knowlton Strategies
Phone: +1-416-413-4732 
Email: miriam.sherkey@hkstrategies.ca