International Simón Bolívar Prize

The International Simón Bolívar Prize was conferred to recognise activities of outstanding merit that, in accordance with the ideals of Latin American independence hero Simón Bolívar, "contribute to the freedom, independence and dignity of peoples and to the strengthening of a new international economic, social and cultural order".^[1]

The Prize was awarded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) every second year, on 24 July (the anniversary of Bolívar's birth). In addition to the intrinsic distinction bestowed on recipients, the award came with a sum of money (currently US$25,000), determined and donated by the government of Venezuela.

Prize winners were selected by the unanimous decision a jury of seven "eminent persons" – five representing the regions of the world, one chosen by the Venezuelan authorities, and a representative of the director-general – from a list of candidates submitted by UNESCO member states and associate members. Both individuals and institutions were eligible as candidates.

The last award was given in 2004, having been suspended by UNESCO. It was subject to revisement,^[2] but nothing ever came.