News Center — Activist Shadi Sadr Wins the “Engaged Scholar Award” from IAGS for 2025

Human rights lawyer and activist Shadi Sadr has been awarded the “Engaged Scholar Award” for 2025 by the International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) in recognition of her outstanding efforts in defending human rights and women’s rights.

In her remarks, Sadr stated that the committee’s decision reflected a recognition of the importance of women legal activists entering the academic field, noting that “it is usually academics who move toward activism, not the other way around.”

The IAGS announced the award on Monday, November 3, honoring Sadr for her work bridging academic research and field practice in the areas of genocide prevention, justice, and advocacy for victims of political and structural violence.

Following the official announcement, Sadr shared the association’s statement on her X account (formerly Twitter), expressing her gratitude for the honor and describing receiving the award as “a great privilege.”

According to the IAGS statement, “The recipients of this award are those who have managed to combine rigorous academic research with practical efforts to raise public awareness and prevent genocide,” reflecting deep appreciation for the dual role such scholars play in generating knowledge and driving social change.

Shadi Sadr, born in 1974 in Tehran, is an Iranian lawyer, journalist, and human rights activist known as one of the most prominent voices advocating for women’s rights in Iran. She has dedicated her life to combating legal and social discrimination against women. She holds a master’s degree in international law from the University of Tehran and began her career in journalism before transitioning to legal and human rights work.

Throughout her career, Sadr has received several international honors, including the “International Women of Courage Award” from the U.S. Department of State in 2010 and the “Ida B. Wells Award for Bravery in Journalism” from Women’s eNews. She was also listed among the BBC’s 100 Women of influence.

The International Association of Genocide Scholars (IAGS) is an independent academic organization established in 1994, comprising scholars, activists, artists, and policymakers dedicated to the study and prevention of genocide, supporting its victims, and promoting transitional justice.