Children’s neurologist, politician, to receive Frantíšek Kriegl Award

This year’s Frantíšek Kriegl Award will go to children’s neurologist and politician in the northeast Bohemian town of Most, Alena Dernerová. The award, recognising outstanding civic courage, is given by the Charter 77 Foundation. The award bears the name of Charter 77 signatory Frantíšek Kriegel, who was the only Czechoslovak political leader who refused to sign Moscow's humiliating dictate after the Soviet-led invasion of Czechoslovakia in August of 1968. Ms Dernerová is being recognised for her efforts in fighting corruption in the health sector, putting the spotlight, for example, on corruption in public tenders for hospital healthcare equipment. Alena Dernerová will receive the award in May.