DIALA AYESH

Campaigning Award (individual) | Winner | Freedom of Expression Awards

Today, Index on Censorship announces Palestinian lawyer and prison advocate, Diala Ayesh as one of two winners of the 2024 Freedom of Expression Awards in the Campaigning category.

The Campaigning category honours activists and campaigners who have had a marked impact in fighting censorship and promoting freedom of expression.

Diala Ayesh’s family said: "Diala has worked for many years defending political prisoners and detainees in Israeli occupation prisons and Palestinian Authority facilities. She has been tirelessly dedicated to defending stolen rights. Diala's nomination for this award comes in recognition of her efforts in defending freedom of expression and independent voices."

Ayesh is a Palestinian human rights defender and lawyer, who has advocated for the freedom and fair treatment of political prisoners. Since 2018, she has monitored the suppression, arrest, or persecution of those exercising their human rights and also represented many of those who have been targeted. On 17 January 2024, Israeli military forces arrested Ayesh at a military checkpoint in the West Bank. According to her lawyers, she has been subjected to assault, threats, and insults by Israeli soldiers during her arrest.

Jemimah Steinfeld, CEO of Index on Censorship said: “Diala is in the extremely challenging position of fighting opposition on both sides - from Palestinian forces who wish to stop what she does to Israeli forces who also want to see her silent. That she was not cowered is a testament to her bravery and fortitude.

The joint winner of the Campaigning Award is Kuchu Times.

The Freedom of Expression Awards celebrate the brave efforts of individuals and organisations worldwide to protect free expression, advocate for the right to information, and combat censorship. Selected by a distinguished panel of judges, the winners are honoured for their extraordinary courage and commitment to truth, justice, and human rights—often in the face of serious threats, including harassment, imprisonment, and even death.