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1 September 2026

2026 Ramon Magsaysay Award winners

The Ramon Magsaysay Award serves as a useful context for illustrating themes of NGO-led development, human rights advocacy, and climate adaptation, though the award itself is not a direct subject of UPSC examination.

1 min read 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • The Ramon Magsaysay Award is an annual recognition honoring individuals for contributions to international dialogue, human rights, and social justice.
  • Tommy Koh (Singapore): Recognized for promoting the rule of law and presiding over the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), often termed the 'constitution for the oceans'.
  • Bo Kyi (Myanmar): Co-founder of the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP); recognized for documenting human rights violations and supporting political detainees.
  • Runa Khan (Bangladesh): Founder of 'Friendship Bangladesh' (est. 2002); recognized for work in climate change adaptation, education, women's empowerment, and social justice for the destitute.

Questions

  1. The 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is often described as the 'constitution for the oceans.' Discuss its significance in defining maritime territorial rights and dispute resolution mechanisms. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Examine the role of civil society organizations in addressing systemic social issues such as climate change, human rights documentation, and social justice in the South Asian context. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. The 'constitution for the oceans,' which defines territorial waters and economic rights of coastal nations, refers to which of the following?