Iqbal Masih

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

Iqbal Masih's achievements are defined by his courage and the lasting impact of his activism. He was the first recipient of the World's Children's Prize, a testament to his role as a global symbol for child rights. His posthumous receipt of the Nishan-e-Imtiaz in 2022 marked the first time a child activist was honored with Pakistan's highest civilian award, recognizing his lifelong dedication to justice. The establishment of the Iqbal Masih Award by the U.S. Department of Labor in 2008 further cements his legacy as a pivotal figure in the fight against child labor.

AwardsIqbal Masih received several posthumous honors recognizing his bravery and impact. He was awarded the Tamgha-e-Shujaat (Medal of Bravery) by the Government of Pakistan in 1995. In March 2022, he received the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Order of Excellence), Pakistan's highest civilian honor. He was also the first recipient of the World's Children's Prize for the Rights of the Child in 1995. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Labor established the Iqbal Masih Award in 2008 in his memory.

Honours & Distinctions

Tamgha-e-Shujaat

Government of Pakistan·1995

Posthumous Medal of Bravery for his courage in fighting child labor.

World's Children's Prize

World's Children's Prize·1995

First recipient of this award for his advocacy on behalf of children.

Nishan-e-Imtiaz

Government of Pakistan·2022

Highest civilian honor awarded posthumously for his enduring contribution to society.

Rankings & Lists

Heroes of the Year

TIME Magazine·1995

Magazine Covers

TIME Magazine

December 25, 1995

The Child Who Dared to Say No

Records & Feats

Youngest Recipient of World's Children's Prize

Humanitarian Record·1995

First recipient of the prize at age twelve.