Recognizing Distinguished Contributions to the Advancement of Democracy
The Mark Palmer Prize was established by the Council for a Community of Democracies (CCD) to honor exceptional achievements by diplomats in advancing democracy in their countries of assignment. Since its inception, the Prize has underscored the courage, professionalism, and commitment of members of the diplomatic corps who, under challenging circumstances, have undertaken bold and effective initiatives to support democratic actors and civil society.
Currently administered by Freedom House, on whose Board of Trustees Ambassador Mark Palmer served for many years, the Prize continues to be presented in partnership with the Community of Democracies (CoD).
About Ambassador Mark Palmer
The award commemorates the legacy of Ambassador Mark Palmer (1941–2013), a distinguished U.S. diplomat and lifelong advocate for democracy.
As U.S. Ambassador to Hungary in 1989, Ambassador Palmer engaged with civil society and the democratic opposition during a pivotal moment in the country’s transition from authoritarian rule. Throughout his career, he remained dedicated to supporting democratic change worldwide.
Among his enduring contributions was the creation of The Diplomat’s Handbook for Democracy Development Support, directed by Ambassador Jeremy Kinsman of Canada, which continues to serve as a reference for diplomats seeking to foster democracy movements across the globe.
Eligibility and Purpose
The award winner must be a diplomat or official serving in an intergovernmental institution.
Nominations for the Mark Palmer Prize should document the diplomat or official’s extraordinary achievements in and support for advancing democracy and human rights by accomplishing one or more of the following:
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- Demonstrated support for civil society’s right to freedoms of assembly, expression, and other principles as outlined in the Warsaw Declaration of the Community of Democracies
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- Supported efforts to assure broader political participation
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- Contributed significantly to assuring free and fair elections
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- Sustained efforts to support human rights, including actions that resulted in a release of prisoners of conscience or an end to cruel and inhuman punishment
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- Facilitated a broader dialogue on democratic reform
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- Coordinated effective international efforts to advance democracy
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- Identified and articulated the importance of democratic values, despite working in a closed or authoritarian society
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- Contributed innovative ideas and support for the consolidation of democratic institutions in countries in transition
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- Upheld the idea of rule of law in countries where it is not practiced
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Significance
By honoring diplomats and international officials who have worked with distinction and courage to advance democracy, the Mark Palmer Prize provides exemplary models for the diplomatic profession; encourages principled engagement with democratic movements, and highlights the indispensable role of diplomacy in advancing freedom and human dignity worldwide.
2026 Call for Nominations
The 2026 Call for Nominations for the Mark Palmer Prize is now open.
Deadline for submission: December 1, 2025
Members of the Community of Democracies Governing Council are kindly invited to share this call within their respective Ministries and institutions.
Previous Awards
The Prize was first awarded in 2011 to diplomats from seven countries during the Community of Democracies’ Ministerial Conference in Vilnius, Lithuania. Since then, laureates from around the world have been recognized for their service, courage, and contributions to democracy.
Submit nominations filling the form or by emailing baird@freedomhouse.org by December 1, 2025.
