Frequently Asked Questions
Background
Who was Fridtjof Nansen?
Fridtjof Nansen was a Norwegian explorer, scientist, diplomat, humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate who served as the first High Commissioner for Refugees at the League of Nations. The legacy of his work for the aid and protection of displaced persons is still present in the UN system today.
When was the Nansen Refugee Award instituted?
The first Nansen Refugee award ceremony took place in 1954, honoring Eleanor Roosevelt as the recipient.
Nominations
Who can be nominated for the award?
Please visit our How to Nominate a Winner page.
Contact us
Our address:
Nansen Committee Secretariat
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
Case Postale 2500
CH-1211 Genève 2 Dépôt
Suisse
Email: nansen@unhcr.org
Connect with us
Use the hashtag #NansenAward to share stories, videos, articles and keep up to date with the latest news.
The ceremony
When will the winner be announced?
Each year the winner is announced in the month of September, ahead of the ceremony in October.
Where and when does the ceremony take place?
The official ceremony presided over by the High Commissioner for Refugees is held annually in October in Geneva, Switzerland, the world's humanitarian capital.
Can I attend the Nansen Refugee Award ceremony?
Unfortunately, the event is not open to the general public. However, public broadcasts of the ceremony take place in tandem.
Media
Are members of the media allowed to attend the ceremony?
Yes, media are welcome to attend the event. Journalists should contact the Nansen Refugee Award Secretariat beforehand to gain entry, and will be be accredited upon arrival at the venue. Please note that possible restrictions, including on recording, photography, and copyright, may apply.
I am working on a feature article/broadcast story. How do I obtain an interview with the appropriate person?
Please contact the Nansen Refugee Award Secretariat at nansen@unhcr.org for further information.
Is there a media package?
Yes. Please contact the Nansen Refugee Award Secretariat at nansen@unhcr.org for further information.
Partners
How can I partner with the Nansen Refugee Award?
Thank you for your interest in supporting the Nansen Refugee Award program. Please contact the Nansen Refugee Award Secretariat at nansen@unhcr.org for further information.
