Madrid, 16 June 2025 – Access Info Europe today announces the launch of the Helen Darbishire Award which celebrates those who have used their right to information to have a positive impact on society.

The Helen Darbishire Award (previously the Access Info Impact Award) recognises those who have significantly leveraged their right to information to advance human rights, environmental protection, anti-corruption, and/or government accountability.

By celebrating exemplary achievements of civil society advocates, campaigners, journalists, academics and practitioners across Europe, the award aims to highlight the importance of the right to information and inspire others to utilise this powerful tool.

Through this award, Access Info Europe and the Open Government Partnership (OGP) honour the impressive work and achievements of Helen Darbishire in championing access to information globally.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Nominations must show how the right to information was used to have a tangible impact on advancing human rights, environmental protection, anti-corruption, and/or government accountability.
  • Impact can be demonstrated through various mechanisms, such as research, political advocacy, litigation, journalistic investigations, or campaigns.
  • The nominee’s work must have been conducted in the past three years.
  • This award is open to individuals and groups working in Europe, including civil society advocates, campaigners, journalists, academics, and practitioners.
  • Both self-nomination and third-party nominations are accepted.

Evaluation Criteria

Assessment of the nominations will consider tangible impact achieved on society, as well as the following:

  • Inclusivity: Positively affecting disadvantaged or marginalised groups.
  • Inspiration: Encouraging others to exercise their right to access information.
  • Adaptability: Overcoming obstacles to secure access to crucial information.
  • Collaboration: Partnering with individuals, organisations, or communities to amplify impact.
  • Sustainability: Ensuring long-lasting outcomes and continued benefit from the information obtained.

Award Benefits

  • Invitation to speak at OGP Summit: OGP will invite one representative of the winning initiative to speak at the 2025 OGP Summit in Spain, with travel costs covered. This offers a platform to share their story and insights with an international audience.
  • Global Promotion and Recognition: Access Info and OGP will promote the winner’s impactful work globally.

Nomination Process

  • Nominate yourself or another person by filling out this application form.
  • Deadline to nominate is 23.59 CET on Friday 11th July.

For more information, contact info@access-info.org