News

Manama, August 2026 — The King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance has announced the launch of the inaugural edition of the King Hamad Award for Coexistence and Tolerance, carrying a monetary prize of US$1 million. Nominations are open worldwide to individuals and institutions until 10 October 2026 through the Award’s official website.

Established pursuant to Royal Order No. (32) of 2024, the Award is an international initiative that embodies the values rooted in Bahrain’s history and civilization, including openness to all civilizations, religions, and cultures and the promotion of coexistence. It reflects the Kingdom’s vision of advancing global peace and coexistence, while encouraging pioneering work in dialogue among civilisations.

The Award recognizes individuals and institutions that have made exceptional and well-documented contributions to fostering a culture of tolerance and coexistence, promoting dialogue and mutual respect, and creating a positive and sustainable impact in communities.

Alongside the monetary prize, receipients receive a certificate of recognition and a medal, presented at a ceremony held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Honorary President of the Award.

His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Center for Coexistence and Tolerance, and Chairman of the Award’s Judging Committee, said: "This inaugural edition embodies the noble vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in firmly establishing the values of coexistence, tolerance and mutual respect, and in supporting international efforts to build more cohesive and stable societies. The Award reflects Bahrain's approach to translating these values into practical initiatives and policies that deliver tangible and sustainable impact, and to highlighting the experiences and achievements that build dialogue, trust and understanding among peoples and cultures.".

The jury comprises Bahraini and international figures with expertise in political, parliamentary, human rights, academic, religious and international cooperation fields. Alongside His Excellency Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, as Chair, its members include:

• Her Excellency Ms. Katalin Éva Novák, former President of the Republic of Hungary and former Minister for Family Affairs;
• Her Excellency Ms. Hala Mohammed Jaber Al Ansari, Adviser to His Majesty the King for Scientific and Cultural Affairs;
• His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Ali Al Khuzaei, member of the Shura Council and Chairman of its Human Rights Committee;
• Her Excellency Ms. Jaleela Alawi Al Sayed Hassan, member of the Council of Representatives;
• His Excellency Mr. Martin Chungong, former Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union; and
• His Excellency Dr. Chinmay Pandya, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya and a prominent figure in the global spiritual organization All World Gayatri Pariwar.

For nomination requirements, evaluation criteria, and application submissions, please visit: www.khaward.bh