The Hong Kong Prize is one of Asia’s premier awards, drawing thousands of applicants each year. It recognizes scientific research with significant societal benefit while inspiring young people to follow their passion while broadening their global perspectives. As well as receiving monetary awards, recipients gain access to Hong Kong’s premier research facilities as well as participating in seminars and internships that can advance their careers.
The prize recognizes individuals whose achievements have advanced global civilisation and inspired others towards creating a harmonious society. From selfless volunteers helping those in need to professors creating liquid biopsy technology for faster cancer diagnoses, the laureates of this award stand out in their pursuit of creating a better world.
Last year, an influential group of American legislators nominated five imprisoned Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders imprisoned by Beijing as candidates for the Nobel Peace Prize, calling them an inspiration in light of Beijing’s crackdown on civil society. Their letter will be submitted directly to the Nobel committee in Oslo for consideration.
But the nomination has created some controversy. Many academics feel it would be inappropriate for protesters who come under direct government control to receive such awards, sending the wrong signal to China which has employed a “draconian political regime” to suppress dissent. They fear the decision might become politicized or encourage other governments to implement similar restrictions on their citizens.
Scholars compared Hong Kong activists with prominent dissidents and persecuted freedom fighters such as Hitler critic Carl von Ossietzky, Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov, Polish politician Lech Walesa, and Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo. In their letter they suggested that the Nobel Peace Prize should go only to individuals working towards peace who demonstrate courage, perseverance and the ability to inspire others – similar examples include Carl von Ossietzky (Soviet Russia), Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov (Soviet Russia), Polish politician Lech Walesa from Poland as well as Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo. They suggested that instead
Reshef’s prize is an acknowledgement of his contribution to education development. Through his tuition-free University of the People, people from all backgrounds can pursue higher education regardless of financial considerations. Based in Hong Kong and accredited online, this non-profit university will offer bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees.
The Board is responsible for reviewing and interpreting the Charter; suggesting important scientific research fields to THE PRIZE; setting requirements for nominating experts; verifying and approving final review results; and organizing for an awards ceremony. Comprised of a Review Committee, Compliance Oversight Team and Secretariat; should any individual violate any provisions of THE PRIZE Charter they can be subject to termination, withdraw prize money withdrawal as well as withdraw certificates/trophies as per Board policy if found. All members involved with THE PRIZE must abide by confidentiality obligations as all members must commit themselves when engaged with THE PRIZE project obligations when participating.