Former President of Chile, Michelle Bachelet, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. The award recognizes her lifelong dedication to promoting human rights, equality, and international collaboration.
The selection jury, chaired by former National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon, praised Bachelet for her remarkable contributions to advancing global peace and development.
About the Indira Gandhi Prize
Instituted in 1986, the Indira Gandhi Prize honors individuals or organizations that embody the values of international peace, disarmament, and sustainable development. The prize includes a cash award of ₹25 lakh and a citation, underscoring the recipient’s commitment to transformative global impact.
Bachelet’s Illustrious Political Career
Michelle Bachelet has served two terms as President of Chile (2006–2010, 2014–2018), leaving a lasting legacy through her transformative reforms. Her presidency prioritized key areas such as education and taxation, aiming to bridge inequality gaps in Chilean society.
Notably, Bachelet was instrumental in strengthening India-Chile relations, playing a key role in negotiating a free trade agreement between the two nations.
A Champion for Human Rights
Beyond her presidency, Bachelet has been a formidable advocate for human rights worldwide. She served as the first Director of UN Women (2010–2013), championing women’s rights and gender equality on a global scale.
From 2018 to 2022, she held the position of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, where her leadership addressed pressing issues such as LGBTQ rights, global inequality, and the defense of marginalized communities. Her unwavering commitment to justice and inclusivity has left an indelible mark on the international stage.
Strengthening India-Chile Ties
Bachelet’s efforts extended beyond Chile, fostering stronger diplomatic ties with India. Her initiatives encouraged bilateral collaboration in diverse areas such as trade, cultural exchange, and sustainable development, enriching the relationship between the two nations.
A Global Recognition of Leadership
The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament, and Development celebrates individuals who have made enduring contributions to global peace and progress. Michelle Bachelet’s selection reaffirms the significance of her work in championing human rights, equality, and international cooperation.
Her recognition serves as a testament to the enduring power of visionary leadership in shaping a more just and inclusive world.