New York, NY – March 2, 2025 – Today ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) honored Farah Pandith, former diplomat and world-renowned foreign policy strategist, with the prestigious Daniel Pearl Award at the 2025 National Leadership Summit. Pandith, whose work in countering violent extremism has garnered global recognition, was honored for her significant contributions to promoting peace, understanding, and resilience against hatred and intolerance.
The ADL Daniel Pearl Award was established in 2004 by longtime ADL leaders George and Ruth Moss and their son, Richard, following the horrific murder of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl in 2002 at the hands of antisemitic terrorists in Pakistan. The award honors his memory and commitment through his work to build cultural bridges and promote understanding.
Pandith, the first-ever Special Representative to Muslim Communities under Secretaries Hillary Clinton and John Kerry, has spent decades in public service, including as a senior advisor at the ADL. Her role as a thought leader in the fight against violent extremism has been integral to U.S. and global policy. As the author of How We Win, she highlights the importance of entrepreneurial, political, and social innovations in overcoming the threats of extremism.
As a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and an adjunct professor at Georgetown University, Pandith is widely recognized for her expertise in creating impactful solutions to complex global issues. Her work has had a lasting impact on policy and society, as she works to unify communities and dismantle extremist ideologies.
“We are thrilled to honor Farah Pandith with the 2025 Daniel Pearl Award,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO. “Her valiant efforts in fighting extremism, promoting peace, and advocating for the dignity of all people have made her an invaluable force for good. Farah's work is a testament to the importance of leadership and empathy in the face of hatred.”
Pandith’s leadership extends far beyond her work in government. She was named the first-ever Muhammad Ali Global Peace Laureate in 2020, a fitting acknowledgment of her dedication to promoting humanitarian values and fostering compassion. Her leadership on the Department of Homeland Security’s Advisory Council and her role in founding the Ali Index on Compassion further exemplify her commitment to creating a more peaceful world.
“It is truly an honor to present the Daniel Pearl Award to Farah Pandith,” said Richard Moss, ADL Board Member. “Farah’s devotion to countering violent extremism, fostering dialogue, and promoting peace embodies the spirit of Daniel Pearl’s legacy. Her leadership is a reminder that we all have the power to make a meaningful difference in the world.”
Pandith’s extraordinary achievements, both in the public and private sectors, continue to inspire individuals worldwide to take action against bigotry and violence. Her tireless efforts and advocacy for a more inclusive global community make her a deserving recipient of the Daniel Pearl Award.
Previous recipients of the ADL Daniel Pearl Award include Nuseir Yassin, Israeli-Palestinian content creator; Imam Abdullah Antepli, scholar and interfaith leader; Mohammed Al Samawi, Yemeni refugee and author; The Aladdin Project; journalist Henrique Cymerman; Spanish journalist Pilar Rahola; Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis, founder of Jewish World Watch; Robert Satloff, executive director of The Washington Institute for Near East Policy; Jeffrey Goldberg, journalist with The Atlantic; Maziar Bahai, filmmaker and human rights activist; and Thomas L. Friedman, columnist for The New York Times.
ADL is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all. More at www.adl.org.
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