Women students of Bangladesh, who stood at the forefront of the historic July Revolution in 2024, have been awarded the prestigious Hillary Rodham Clinton Award at Georgetown University in recognition of their courage, resilience, and role in defending democracy.
The award was presented during Georgetown University’s annual Hillary Rodham Clinton Awards ceremony, which honors women around the world for their contributions to advancing democracy, peace, and human rights. This year’s honorees included Filipina journalist Maria Ressa, historian Anne Applebaum, Venezuelan political prisoners, and the women students of Bangladesh, recognized as a collective force in a landmark movement for democratic change.
“We cannot be silent in the face of corruption and injustice anywhere, including here at home,” said former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in her speech. “As we lift up our allies who are fighting for democracy and freedom, let’s also lift up those here who are trying to do the same.”
Women at the Frontline of a Revolution
The award citation highlighted the extraordinary role of women students during the July 2024 pro-democracy movement, which ultimately led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s authoritarian government. It recalled how women defied curfews, organized protests against systemic discrimination, and mobilized the country in a historic push for equality and democratic accountability.
“The women students were at the forefront of the protest, often acting as human shields at the front of the marches,” the host said during the ceremony. “They stood firm despite violence and abuse in the form of beatings and even death.”
According to UN estimates, more than 1,000 people were killed during the state’s brutal crackdown on protesters. Despite the violence, women continued to play a decisive role in pushing for reforms, advocating for representation in the interim government formed on August 8, 2024, under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.
In a statement read at the event, Interim President Yunus said:
“The July Revolution in Bangladesh stands as the defining moment in our nation’s history. It is essential to recognize and honor the remarkable role played by women whose courage, resilience, and leadership not only shaped the course of the revolution but laid the foundation for future progress in our society.”
Tanjina Tammim Hapsa Accepts the Award
The award was received on behalf of the women students of Bangladesh by Tanjina Tammim Hapsa, a central coordinator of the July Uprising and Joint Member Secretary (যুগ্ম সদস্যসচিব) of বাংলাদেশ গণতান্ত্রিক ছাত্রসংসদ at Dhaka University.
Accepting the award, Hapsa dedicated the honor to all the young women who took to the streets in defiance of fear and state violence:
“This award belongs to every woman who refused to be silent. We fought not only for our rights but for the soul of our nation. And we will keep fighting until we secure lasting democracy in Bangladesh.”
Global Recognition of a People’s Movement
The award citation praised the women students for their “commitment to justice, equality, and democracy manifested in their peaceful protests against a repressive authoritarian leader, their courage in the face of violence, and their continuing dedication to democratic values in their society.”
The Hillary Rodham Clinton Award, established in 2014 by the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, is considered one of the most significant global recognitions for women advancing peace and democratic change.
This marks the first time Bangladeshi students have received this award, putting the July Uprising on the global stage as a defining chapter in the country’s democratic struggle.
