Jurist of the Year Award (J.O.Y. Award)

Since 1993, the Kenyan Section of the International Commission of Jurists has bestowed The ICJ Jurist of the Year (JOY) Award to individuals who have consistently, fearlessly and impartially promoted human rights, the rule of law and democracy in Kenya during the year. The award seeks to give recognition, acknowledgement and encouragement to these individuals. The Award has traditionally been presented on December 10th in commemoration of the United Nations International Human Rights Day. The JOY Award has become an important fixture on the Human Rights Calendar of events in Kenya. It provides an opportunity for human rights defenders and actors to reflect on the gains in promoting human rights during the year and to chart the way forward for the future. There is also an opportunity to network and mingle in a less formal setting.

The recipients of the award are selected using criteria set out in the Society By-laws, to ensure objectivity and transparency.
 

Past Recipients of the Jurist of the Year Award
 
 

Name	Year
Mr. Samuel Kivuitu	2007
Hon. Njoki Ndungu	2006
Chief Maina Kiai	2005
Hon. Wanyiri Kihoro	2004
Dr.Willy Mutunga	2003
Ms.Raychelle Omamo&  Ms.Grace Githu(Posthumously)	2002
Dr.Ooko Ombaka & Prof. Yash Pal Ghai	2001
Mr.Njonjo Mue	2000
Hon. Martha Karua	1999
Hon. James Orengo	1998
Prof.Kivutha Kibwana	1997
Hon.Mirugi Kariuki	1996
Mr. Pheroze Nowrojee	1995
Justice Frank Shields	1994
Dr. Gibson Kamau Kuria	1993