(Strasbourg) “The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought celebrates those remarkable people and organisations who stand up for freedom and democracy around the world. Who blaze a trail and inspire others. Who continue to fight for what they know is right, no matter how great the challenge or how large the sacrifice”. The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, said this at the award ceremony that took place at the European Parliament in Strasbourg today. “These laureates form a roll call of champions of democracy, stretching back over three decades. Today, we welcome another two extraordinary people to this prestigious list: journalists Andrzej Poczobut from Belarus and Mzia Amaglobeli from Georgia”. Metsola then explained: “Andrzej and Mzia cannot be with us today to recognise their achievements and their courage. They are in prison simply for doing their jobs, speaking out against injustice and persecution. Therefore, to accept this award on Andrzej Poczobut’s behalf, we welcome his daughter, Jana Poczobut. And on Mzia Amaglobeli’s behalf, we welcome journalist Irma Dimitradze. Dear Jana, dear Irma, thank you so much for being here today”. As every year, Metsola also welcomed the other Sakharov Prize finalists: Serbian students, the Red Crescent, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, and the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate, representing journalists and humanitarian workers. This House thanks you all for being with us here today and for your courageous commitment”.