People’s Human Rights Champion
Overview
The Amnesty Media Awards celebrate the excellent work and bravery of journalists, activists and those who use their platform to shine a light on human rights abuses around the world.
The People’s Human Rights Champion award will celebrate a prominent UK public figure who uses their platform and voice to engage the public and consistently champion human rights - either across a broad range of issues or through sustained focus on a specific cause.
The shortlist has been nominated by Amnesty activists, groups and networks, and staff.
Now it’s your turn to vote for who you think should win the People’s Human Rights Champion 2026.
Voting closed at midnight on 17 April. The winner will be announced at the Amnesty Media Awards on 6 May at BFI Southbank.
Learn about the nominees
Abigail Thorn Show Hide
Abigail Thorn is an actor and writer. She appeared as Sharako Lohar on season two of HBO’s House of the Dragon and will return for season three this June. Abigail created Philosophy Tube, an educational web show with a global audience of 1.6 million. She uses her platform to advocate for NHS reform, to provide trans people with equal access to healthcare, justice, and protection from conversion therapy.
Ashley James Show Hide
Ashley James is a broadcaster, campaigner and Sunday Times Best Selling Author of her debut novel BIMBO. She is a vocal advocate for social justice, equality and women’s rights, regularly using her role as Social and Political Commentator on ITV’s This Morning to challenge outdated narratives around women’s confidence, relationships and identity. Her work creates space for others to speak up, and reinforces that respect, safety and equality are not optional, but fundamental rights
Cody Dahler Show Hide
Cody Dahler is an award-winning comedy creator, writer, and podcaster with a sharp wit and unique voice. Known for blending clever satire with authentic human observation, Cody has built a dedicated following of over 1.6 million followers, engaging with political and social issues in a way that provokes thought and laughter.
Gary Lineker Show Hide
Gary Lineker is a broadcaster, host of The Rest Is Football and renowned former England footballer. He is a prominent advocate for refugees and asylum seekers, hosting people through his work with Refugees at Home. Gary uses his platform to speak up for those who often have no voice, including supporting the people of Gaza and advocating for their protection.
Lord Alf Dubs Show Hide
Lord Dubs is a Labour politician and leading advocate for refugee rights. As a former Director and current Patron of the Refugee Council, he consistently uses his voice to champion the needs of refugees both nationally and internationally.
Misan Harriman Show Hide
Misan Harriman is a photographer, social activist and Oscar nominated filmmaker known for using his work to support human rights movements. He is one of the most widely shared visual storytellers of this age - focusing on the human stories behind struggles for racial justice, social justice, equality, and freedom.
Michael Rosen Show Hide
Michael Rosen is an acclaimed author, poet, and broadcaster best known for his children’s books, poetry and YouTube channel, which has garnered over 161 million views. His work often explores themes of family, language and social justice, and he has tirelessly campaigned for the people of Gaza.
Revd Dr Sam Wells Show Hide
Revd. Dr Sam Wells is a theologian, priest, and social justice advocate who serves as the Vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields in London, where he has led a dynamic and growing community of hope. He speaks regularly on Radio 4 and is widely recognised for his work on social justice, human rights, and community, with extensive engagement with those facing homelessness and seeking asylum.
Zawe Ashton Show Hide
@zawe
Zawe Ashton is an accomplished actor, writer, director, passionate activist and a dedicated Save the Children Ambassador. She actively leverages her platform to raise awareness about the pressing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and beyond.
In addition to her support for raising crucial funds for those in need in crisis zones, Zawe’s commitment to advocacy is evident through her consistent participation in marches and social justice events.
Zawe has organised grassroots storytelling events for parents and children, creating spaces that centre children in the fight for our shared humanity.
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Winners across the 12 award categories include BBC Radio 4, Channel 4, The Guardian, Financial Times, ITV News and BBC Eye Investigations