An international jury of experts from 14 countries spent the last four weeks evaluating more than 2,300 submissions to this year's contest and put together a shortlist of 126 finalists. At a press conference on May 2, the jury will announce the main prize winners in the categories "Social Change," "Tech for Good," "Arts and Culture" and "Citizen Journalism." They will be honored at the Deutsche Welle Global Media Forum (GMF) in Bonn, Germany, on June 14. DW is also awarding the Freedom of Speech Award.

Since 2004, Deutsche Welle has honored the people whose exemplary work contributes to improving online freedom of expression and civil society on the Internet.

Women's rights, migration and discrimination against minorities are among this year's main topics. The range of subjects is as broad as in previous years and reflects current news trends.

14-member jury from 14 countries

Hu Yong of China joined the jury for the fourth time and pointed out The Bobs awards' international importance. "I am a very active and influential blogger myself, and was nominated once as a candidate for The Bobs," he said. "I believe DW has done a great job to promote China's presence in the global blogosphere."

Golnaz Esfandiari of Iran evaluated the Farsi-language submissions and had clear reasons for joining the jury. "Several aspects of The Bobs convinced me to become a member of the jury: the fact that the awards are being organized by a reputable news organization, the emphasis of The Bobs on freedom of expression and human rights, and the opportunity to make new and interesting contacts."

The Bobs’ media partners are: Alsumaria, Somewhere in, bdnews24.com, Banglatribune, China Digital Times, IFEX, Global Voices, Waza, Satyagrah, Webdunia, Gooya, Hromadske TV, Novoye Vremya, Medyatava.