The award focuses on advancing world understanding and peace, whether by peace-making efforts or humanitarian activity of international or local significance. The original award was first announced at the 75th Anniversary of Rotary International at its convention in Chicago, Illinois, on 5 June 1980, and has been awarded to 15 individuals and 3 organizations since 1981. Any Rotarian is entitled to submit the name of one candidate for the award directly to RI World Headquarters.
All nominations are to be kept confidential.
The deadline for receipt of these recommendations at World Headquarters is 1 November 2001. No nominations will be accepted after this date.