Adam Wagner KC awarded the Hostage Aid “Breaking the Chain” award 2025 for Exceptional Hostage Release Efforts

The Board of Directors of Hostage Aid Worldwide has selected Adam Wagner KC as a joint recipient of the Hostage Aid “Breaking the Chain” Award 2025 for Exceptional Hostage Release Efforts.

Adam receives this award alongside Adam Rose, Partner at Mishcon de Reya LLP, in recognition of their extraordinary pro bono work supporting families of British and British-linked hostages held in Gaza since October 2023.

This prestigious honour recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the cause of reuniting hostages with their families. Their tireless pro bono efforts have exemplified the highest standards of legal advocacy and humanitarian compassion.

The award was presented at Hostage Aid Worldwide’s annual high-level side event during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, held at the Westin New York Grand Central on Friday, 19 September 2025: “Breaking the Chain: Global Action Against Hostage-Taking – Hostages as Victims of Terrorism and State Violence.” The gathering brought together the UN Under Secretary General, senior U.S. officials, heads of mission, survivors, and experts to confront hostage-taking as a tool of terrorism and state violence. Last year‘s recipient was the UN Secretary General - António Guterres.

For more information about the award, read the Hostage Aid press release here.

Read more about the ceremony here.

Listen to Adam’s speech here.