The Gerhart and Renate Baum Foundation has announced that its human rights prize will be renamed the “Gerhart Baum Human Rights Prize” honoring the legacy of the late FDP politician. The announcement was made by Renate Liesmann-Baum, the politician’s widow, in an interview with “Der Spiegel”.
The biennial award, carrying a monetary value of €10,000, is designed to support projects focused on the advancement and protection of human rights. Most recently, the prize was awarded in 2024 to an initiative spearheaded by female human rights activists evacuated from Afghanistan, a country under Taliban control.
Gerhart Baum, a prominent voice within the Free Democratic Party (FDP), passed away in February at the age of 92. Known for his liberal stance, he frequently expressed criticism regarding developments within his own party. Following his death, Liesmann-Baum joined the FDP and has been actively involved in preserving and promoting her husband’s legacy.
Until his passing, Baum collaborated with his wife and a journalist on a recently published book, titled “Besinnt Euch” (“Reflect”). The work includes a call for the defense of democracy, advocating for a reasoned and compassionate approach – notably referencing the right-wing AfD party – and even considering potential measures such as a party ban.