The World Anti-Extremism Network (WAEN) is honored to announce Brad Lips as the recipient of the 2025 Linda Whetstone Award for Freedom and Human Rights. This award recognizes individuals whose work demonstrates an exceptional commitment to human dignity, liberty, and the global effort to confront extremism and authoritarianism. Brad Lips’ leadership and global advocacy embody the values and principles for which this award stands.
As Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Network, Brad Lips has played a central role in strengthening independent civil society organizations across the world, dedicated to protecting individual freedom and challenging systems that restrict human rights. Under his guidance, Atlas Network has broadened its international footprint, supporting partners in environments affected by authoritarian control and extremist ideologies. Brad’s contributions extend beyond organizational leadership. His writings, including Liberalism and the Free Society in 2021 offer clear and principled arguments and data for rights-based governance, open discourse, and societies grounded in human dignity. His thought leadership helps equip individuals and communities with the intellectual tools needed to resist coercion and uphold fundamental freedoms.
He has also served in key roles within global institutions committed to advancing liberty. His voice has been influential in highlighting the dangers of extremist ideologies and advocating for societies rooted in freedom and respect—from Afghanistan to Iran, across Africa, and throughout the world.
As our President Professor Ahrar Ramizpoor shared: “Brad’s consistent support strengthened freedom movement in ways that truly matter.”
By presenting Brad Lips with the Linda Whetstone Award, WAEN recognizes his long-standing dedication to defending human rights and supporting those working to build open, resilient communities.
Watch what freedom advocates from around the world are sharing about Brad’s leadership.
Join us in congratulating him on receiving this award for his decades of exceptional work and leadership in the cause of freedom!
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