Waris Dirie

Awarded 2014

The 2014 LI Prize for Freedom is awarded to Ms. Waris Dirie for her pioneering work in fighting to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM). As UN Special Ambassador for the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation, Ms. Dirie raised public awareness of the practice of FGM; work that she continues today through her Desert Flower Foundation.

A former model, a writer and political activist, Waris Dirie was born in Somalia and grew up in London. Her 16-year global battle against FGM practices has seen her honoured by national governments and regional organisations.

Main Image: John Russell for Liberal International.