Rotterdam's Ahmed Aboutaleb wins World Mayor Prize

Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb of Rotterdam won an international prize. He was honored with the World Mayor Prize for his way of governing, together with Mayor Philippe Rio of Grigny near Paris.

The London-based City Mayors Foundation, an international think tank dedicated to local governance, presents the award, a sculpture, every two years. "Aboutaleb treats all citizens as 'Rotterdammers', regardless of their origin or background," the foundation said. "Both mayors share a strong belief that upholding the values of peace, freedom, equal rights, and human dignity are essential for social cohesion."

"Throughout the Covid pandemic, both mayors have shown exceptional leadership, realizing from the outset that the virus can threaten the most vulnerable parts of society," the judges wrote. "Ahmed Aboutaleb, one of the longest-serving and most respected mayors in Europe, has led the city of Rotterdam since 2009 with courage, patience and humility," said Tann vom Hove of the foundation.

Aboutaleb said in a response that he is very honored with the prize. "I am speechless. It is an honor that the people of Rotterdam nominated me for this. I therefore feel very appreciated by the inhabitants of this beautiful city. A city where so many different people live together. I have the most beautiful job you can imagine."