At the end of 2024, the Reva and David Logan Foundation, in partnership with the taz Panther Foundation, the Wau Holland Foundation and Whistleblower-Netzwerk, proudly announced the launch of the International Ellsberg Whistleblower Award, named after Daniel and Patricia Ellsberg.
Daniel Ellsberg was the most important whistleblower of his time. By disclosing the “Pentagon Papers,” he exposed the lies perpetuated by several US administrations, contributing to the ending of the Vietnam War. His disclosure also resulted in a significant Supreme Court decision for press freedom. The award was established to preserve the spirit of his legacy.
The prize will be presented to individuals and organizations worldwide whose efforts have helped disclose information that significantly enhances free public or scientific debate strengthening the public’s right to know. Their revelations will give the public the chance to participate in debates and decision-making processes on key issues that affect democracy and society as a whole.
The first to receive the award is Mr. Daniel Everette Hale, a former National Security Agency (NSA) intelligence analyst who spoke out about high civilian casualties and governmental misconduct regarding US drone warfare (2014). Concerning his motivation Hale explained: “No person should have to die for a crime that they did not commit. Just as no person should have to live with the burden of having taken a poor, defenseless, innocent life” (Daniel Hale, 2019). His whistleblowing raised critical awareness about the balance between national security, the public’s right to know, and ethics in modern warfare, as his lawyer Jesselyn Radack elaborated in her laudatory speech. For his courageous disclosures, Hale was indicted under the draconian 1917 US Espionage Act and sentenced to prison in 2021. In February 2024, Hale was released from prison after having served 33 months from which he is currently recovering.
It was Daniel Ellsberg’s personal wish that Daniel Hale received the inaugural Ellsberg Whistleblower Award.
The awardees will receive 10,000 euros. The founding members envision the award evolving into a global network of support and recognition for whistleblowers, especially in places where their contributions to democracy and the common good might otherwise be concealed or go unnoticed. Civil society organizations and concerned individuals will have the opportunity to become members of the jury and nominate deserving whistleblowers from their respective communities.
For further information about the award, nomination processes, and how to become a member, please visit https://ellsberg-award.org.