The US State Department has awarded women students who courageously participated in last year’s July-August protests the prestigious Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award. This recognition is part of the International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award, which acknowledges women worldwide for their bravery and leadership. The matter was discussed in a recent US State Department press briefing.
During the briefing, US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce emphasized that the award celebrates women dedicated to building a brighter future for all. She highlighted that the recipients are strong advocates for peace, justice, human rights, and the empowerment of women and girls.
Speaking at the regular press conference on Monday, March 31, Bruce responded to a journalist’s question regarding Bangladeshi women’s participation in the award ceremony.
A journalist specifically asked about the bravery of women who risked their lives in the movement to overthrow former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian rule. The journalist stated,
"At the beginning of your statement, you mentioned that the proud daughters of Bangladesh will be honored tomorrow as they receive the award. They are being recognized for their role in the 2024 movement against the fascist Hasina government. Do you have any comments on this?"
In response, Tammy Bruce said,
"They will be receiving their award tomorrow. My focus here is on the International Women of Courage Award, and I will not speculate on the latter part of your question regarding Bangladeshi politics."
She further noted that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and First Lady Melania Trump will host the 19th annual International Women of Courage Award ceremony at the State Department. This year, eight remarkable women will be honored, along with recipients of the Madeleine Albright Honorary Group IWOC Award, for their dedication to a better future.
Bruce reiterated that the IWOC Award recognizes women who demonstrate exceptional courage, resilience, and leadership despite facing significant risks to their safety.
Since the award's inception in 2007, a total of 200 women from 90 countries have received this prestigious honor.
