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Ramon Magsaysay Awards 2026 [Prelims Bits]

02 Sep 2026

Tags: Prelims   Current events of national and international importance

Source: The Indian Express

  • Context:Tommy Koh (Singapore), Bo Kyi (Myanmar) and Runa Khan (Bangladesh) won the 2026 Ramon Magsaysay Awards, Asia’s major award for selfless public service.
  • Tommy Koh: Singaporean lawyer-diplomat; chaired the 1982 UN Conference on the Law of the Sea, leading to adoption of UNCLOS—the “constitution for the oceans”; promotes international dialogue, rule of law and peaceful dispute settlement.
  • UNCLOS: Provides the legal framework for maritime zones, coastal-state economic rights and dispute settlement; formed the basis of the 2016 South China Sea arbitration ruling that rejected China’s expansive maritime claims.
  • Bo Kyi: Myanmar democracy and human-rights activist; co-founded Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) in 2000 to document political imprisonment and support prisoners and their families; spent 7 years in prison.
  • Runa Khan: Bangladeshi social worker; founded Friendship Bangladesh (2002), working on climate change, education, women’s empowerment, livelihoods and social justice; organisation operates hospitals and mobile clinics.
  • Prelims Edge: Ramon Magsaysay Award was first given in 1958 and is named after Ramon Magsaysay, former President of the Philippines. Winners receive a medallion, certificate and cash prize.

Prelims Question

Q1. Which one of the following best explains the significance of the Ramon Magsaysay Award in the context of the 2026 recipients?

A. It primarily recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to diplomacy and international law.

B. It recognises public service and social leadership, with the 2026 recipients representing diverse contributions ranging from international law and human rights to climate resilience and community development.

C. It is an official award of the United Nations given to Asian nationals for advancing international peace.

D. It is a regional environmental award focused exclusively on sustainable development in Asia.

Answer: B

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