Human Rights Prize 2024: award for courage and integration in Graz!

Human Rights Prize 2024: award for courage and integration in Graz!

In the White Hall of the Graz Castle, the ceremonial award of the Human Rights Award of the State of Styria in 2024 took place on Monday, March 17, 2025. The renowned awards went to two outstanding personalities: Doris Reiter von Wist Styria and Johannes Mindler-Steiner, head of the Afro-Asian institute Graz. In addition to honor, they received 7,500 euros for their tireless commitment to social justice and intercultural exchange. State Councilor Stefan Hermann, who presented the award on behalf of Governor Mario Kunasek, emphasized the fundamental importance of the protection of human rights: "Without the effective protection of human rights, neither poverty cannot combat, nor are the noble goal of global peace and international security," says Hermann, as well as 5min.at reported.

commitment to integration and equal opportunities

Doris Reiter is recognized for their commitment to equal opportunities and integration. As a director of Wist Styria, she plays a crucial role in the further training of women and promotes social participation. Their initiatives, such as the "Ball of Diversity" and the "Graz Inclusion Run", set standards in the field of tolerance and equality. "Supporting Ukraine aid with wheelchairs and walkers was very important to me," she emphasizes, one of many human and helpful actions that support her philosophy behind social work, supplements orf.at .

Johannes Mindler-Steiner represents the Afro-Asian institute, which was founded in 1962 and has since been an important center of intercultural dialogue. The institute promotes the exchange between people from Africa, Asia and Latin America, thus contributing to a better understanding of different cultures. The annual “multicultural”, which brings people together of different origins together and thus keeps the principle of intercultural encounter alive. After a careful selection, the Human Rights Prize is awarded from numerous proposals and is reminiscent of the pressing need to protect and defend human rights immediately.