CISU's Initiative Award is presented annually to an organisation in Denmark whose efforts stand out in terms of raising awareness about global development cooperation.
Submit your nomination for the Initiative Award
About the Award
The purpose of the Initiative Award is to acknowledge an organisation that, through information or advocacy work, has made a significant effort to inspire and/or mobilise Danes to engage in global development work. This is preferably done in an innovative and critical manner that sparks debate and discussion.
The award includes a statuette by the artist Jens Galschiøt and a prize of 25,000 DKK. to support grassroots efforts. The amount can be used at the discretion of the organisation's board.
Previous recipients of the Award
In 2023, the Initiative Award was presented to The National Association of Eco-Communities (pictured).
Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, the National Association of Eco-Communities (NØS) has supported the Global Ecovillage Network (GEN) Ukraine through the 'The Green Road' initiative, which unites eco-communities across Europe in welcoming displaced Ukrainians.
The award recognises NØS and all the involved eco-communities in Denmark for their strong commitment to assisting displaced Ukrainians. It serves as an example of how local communities can step up and contribute to global challenges.
In 2022, the Initiative Award was bestowed upon AfriCAN, which has made a remarkable effort in building a network of African diaspora groups that inspire each other and other development actors to engage African diaspora groups in development work.
As part of their efforts, the network also hosts an event on African Union Day, showcasing and celebrating the contributions of Danish diaspora organisations to global development. AfriCAN stands out for its immense potential in reaching new groups and involving them in development cooperation through diligent networking.
In 2021, the Initiative Award went to WarFair, selected by the general assembly. WarFair assists producers who have worked hard to create a sustainable livelihood for their own families and local communities, ensuring they do not lose this due to wars and local conflicts.
Trade is a tool for development and job creation, and WarFair can inspire other organisations to work with organisational models where trade is part of the organisation's or Southern partner's economy.
The two other nominated initiatives were FANT - Football for a New Tomorrow and Engineers Without Borders.