The prize was awarded to journalists Maria Ressa of the Philippines and Dmitry Muratov of Russia for their fights for freedom of expression in their countries.

"This is a call for mobilisation to defend journalism," said Christophe Deloire, secretary general of the advocacy group known by its French initials RSF.

The award sparked a sense of both "joy and urgency", he told reporters.

"Joy because this is an extraordinary tribute to journalism. This is an excellent tribute to two incredible figures, Maria and Dmitry," he said.

But there is also a feeling of urgency, he said, because "journalism is in danger, journalism is weakened, journalism is threatened... all over the world".