The IWMF supports investigation into why Finnish journalist’s award was revoked

The International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) is deeply concerned about the revocation by the U.S. State Department of the International Women of Courage Award from Finnish investigative journalist Jessikka Aro.

Aro was announced as a recipient of the International Women of Courage Award several months ago – an honor that was approved by eight State Department officials. The award was given to Aro in recognition of her bravery while reporting overseas.

The unexplained, last-minute withdrawal of this award creates confusion and requires a thorough review by the State Department. The IWMF supports an investigation encouraged by members of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee and urges the State Department to provide explicit details on the reversal of the award. The IWMF is sending a formal letter with these recommendations to State Department officials.

The public must hold leadership to account on issues affecting press freedom and how these issues impact journalists worldwide. The IWMF will continue to support Aro and those who are working to shed light on the truth.