Hamid Mir

Hamid Mir is a journalist and author with a substantial body of work. Throughout his career, Mir has reported on conflicts in several regions, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Chechnya, and Kashmir. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the sole journalist to have conducted an interview with Osama bin Laden following the terrorist attacks on 9/11. Additionally, he has had the privilege of interviewing Nelson Mandela and played a pivotal role in introducing Malala Yousafzai to television audiences in 2009.

Mir has written articles for Pakistani publications and hosted a talk show on GEO TV, a national news channel. He contributes Urdu columns for Daily Jang and English columns for The Washington Post and India Today. He has received recognition from Reporters Without Borders and various awards from organizations like Free Press Unlimited and the SAARC Writers Association.

Despite facing immense challenges, including two assassination attempts, being banned from television on three occasions, and enduring job losses due to his unwavering commitment to press freedom and human rights, Hamid Mir remains a steadfast advocate for these crucial causes. His influence also extends to his role as a member of the Jury for the RSF World Press Freedom Award and the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Award.