Director of NGO Atina, Marijana Savić, Receives Franco-German human rights award

German and French Ambassadors Anke Konrad and Pierre Cochard today awarded Marijana Savić, founder and director of the Belgrade-based NGO Atina, the Franco-German Human Rights Prize. Upon receiving the award, Savić emphasized that the rights of women and girls are essential for building a just and fair society. She noted that it was an honor to receive the award presented each year on December 10, International Human Rights Day.

“I’m glad that this recognition today highlights the importance of human rights, especially for women and girls whose voices often go unheard. I also express my sincere gratitude to the German and French ambassadors for your action and this award, and for your countries' commitment to nurturing and celebrating universal values such as justice, equality, and dignity for all. At Atina, we fight against human trafficking and gender-based violence, defending the rights of women and children in Serbia and beyond,” Savić said.

She underlined that the organization’s goal is to create safe spaces for women and girls who have experienced violence.

“This award is not just mine. I have to say it belongs to my team—an exceptional and incredible team, and I am proud to work with them,” she said, stressing that the award reflects the hard work of the entire organization.

She also highlighted how the award validates the significance of Atina's work.

“This award not only celebrates and highlights the importance of human rights, but it also reaffirms that the rights of women and girls are crucial for building a fair and equitable society,” she said.

German Ambassador Anke Konrad said it was an honor to present the award to Marijana Savić, who has spent more than 20 years through her organization “Atina” promoting the human rights of women and children who are victims of trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

“Her invaluable work and unwavering commitment inspire all of us, both in Serbia and globally. That’s why Savić rightfully joins a small number of people worldwide who are honored for their extraordinary contributions,” the ambassador said.

She added that the award recognizes civil society’s dedication to human dignity and rights.

“It honors those who advocate for the often silenced voices—vulnerable individuals, women, children, refugees. It celebrates those who raise awareness about human rights issues, overcome stigma faced by victims, support survivors, mobilize resources for them, and most importantly, work to prevent human rights violations. This year, as in previous years, the Franco-German Human Rights Award is being given to individuals worldwide who are particularly active in defending women’s rights and gender equality,” Konrad added.

She also noted that this is the first time someone from Serbia has received the award.

She emphasized that Atina has long been fighting human trafficking, but most importantly, that it has changed the lives of those most at risk.

French Ambassador to Serbia Pierre Cochard stated that France and Germany share a common vision on human rights and their significance to the functioning of the European Union.

Regarding our relations with Serbia, human rights and the rule of law are key elements. We are pleased to recognize one of the defenders of these values here in Serbia. Marijana, you are one of the most critical voices in this country fighting against gender-based violence and human trafficking. Your work is guided by a feminist vision and directed toward the most vulnerable—women and children,” Cochard said.

He thanked Atina and emphasized the organization's three key contributions:

Providing shelter for women and children who have had to flee their homes, whether from within Serbia or thousands of kilometers away.

Supporting those without economic opportunity, particularly through social entrepreneurship, like its catering service, has helped economically empower over 200 survivors.

Giving a voice back to survivors, helping them be heard once more.

He noted that since its founding, Atina has supported over 10,000 women.

“The Franco-German Human Rights Award aims to recognize and support people like you. We at the French Embassy in Serbia are happy and honored to consider you a partner in efforts to prevent gender-based violence and combat human trafficking. Through this award and your work, we highlight the importance that France and Germany jointly place on civil society’s role in defending human dignity and the inalienable human rights of all people,” Cochard stated.

He concluded that civil society organizations must be able to act freely and carry out their initiatives without pressure or obstacles.

Since 2016, France and Germany have jointly awarded this annual prize to individuals worldwide who have shown exceptional commitment to promoting human rights. Past recipients have included civil society leaders, journalists, and activists who defend the inalienable rights of every human being, often risking their freedom or even their lives under the most challenging conditions.

The original text can be read at the following link: https://www.rtv.rs/sr_lat/drustvo/francusko-nemacku-nagradu-za-ljudska-prava-dobila-direktorka-nvo-atina-marijana-savic_1591368.html