It is awarded to "a man or woman who has made an outstanding contribution to the beauty of the world and to mankind's enjoyment and understanding of life".

BBC: West Wing star Anna Deavere Smith wins top arts prize

The prize rewards up to three candidates that have made an outstanding contribution to the development of knowledge and society through art, teaching and research in the social sciences and humanities.

UNESCO: Apply for UNESCO Prizes

Five "Samoan Language Champions" are being honoured at the weekend - people who have made an outstanding contribution to the preservation and promotion of gagana Samoa in New Zealand.

UNESCO: Samoan Language Week an international success

The prize rewards the efforts of an individual, an institution, a non-governmental organisation or another entity which, through research and development, has made an outstanding contribution to the field of microbiology (including immunology, molecular biology, genetics, etc.) and its applications.

UNESCO: Apply for UNESCO Prizes

The trophy is awarded to the player, born or resident in Europe, or team who have made the "most outstanding contribution to golf during the preceding 12 months".

BBC: Sorenstam completed a career Grand Slam of women's majors

In that time he has shown outstanding leadership and made important contribution to the company.

ENGADGET: Acer's Jim Wong named Corporate President, will head new Touch Business Group

The council said that the Freedom of the Borough title was an old established civic honour, made to citizens for their "outstanding contribution" to the community.

BBC: Beds, Herts & Bucks

Valve boss Gabe Newell is being made a fellow of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts for his outstanding contribution to video games.

BBC: Valve boss Gabe Newell awarded Bafta fellowship