Award "Daring Democracy – Showing Civil Courage"

The award “Daring Democracy – Showing Civil Courage” honors outstanding commitment to social cohesion, democratic fundamental values, environmental and consumer protection, as well as social justice in Germany. Every two years, the Solbach-Freise Foundation for Civil Courage awards a prize of up to 5,000 euros to individuals, groups, associations, or non-profit organizations who have accepted personal disadvantages through courageous actions in the spirit of democracy. Selection is made based on third-party nominations or research by foundation members; there is no legal entitlement to the award. The ceremonial presentation aims to make civil courage visible and to encourage further actors to engage for the common good.

A nomination requires proof of civil courage involving personal disadvantages, such as conflicts with authorities, financial losses, or social rejection. Evaluation focuses particularly on the impact of the commitment on the common good, the extent of risks taken, and the topicality of the engagement in democratic disputes. The application period usually begins at the start of the year and ends on December 31 of the respective call year. Through the public award ceremony, laureates are brought into the media spotlight and their examples of civil courage are made accessible to a broad public. This recognition not only supports compensation for personal disadvantages but primarily serves to strengthen democratic values in the state and society.