Washington, DC - Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan will present the 2018 Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award, with remarks to be provided by First Lady Melania Trump, in honor of 10 extraordinary women during an official ceremony from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, March 21, at the U.S. Department of State.

First established in March 2007, this annual award honors women around the world who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in acting to bring positive change to their societies, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. To date, under the IWOC program, the U.S. Department of State has recognized over 120 women from more than 65 countries who have worked to advocate for and promote human rights, the advancement of the status of women, peace, and government transparency around the world.

The names and bios of the recipients of the 2018 award will be announced on Monday, March 19.

The ceremony will be open to the press and streamed live on https://www.state.gov .