According to Reuters (Sep. 14, 2001), Mr. Li Hongzhi, the founder of Falun Gong, has been nominated for the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.

The report said, "The Committee on Foreign Affairs, Human Rights, Common Security and Defence Policy will decide which three candidates to propose at its meeting on 2 October 2001, from amongst whom the Conference of Presidents will select the winner."

"The prize will be presented by Parliament's President at a ceremony during the House's plenary session in Strasbourg on 12 December."

The report also mentioned, "The Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought has been awarded every year since 1988 to an individual or organisation that has made a significant contribution to promoting human rights. "