Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, from eastern Tibet, was a popular Tibetan leader dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan identity. He had a strong influence on his community, which was viewed by Chinese authorities as threatening to their control. Over a 10-year period Tenzin Delek was the target of harassment and intimidation by Chinese officials. In 2015, after serving 13 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, Tenzin Delek Rinpoche died in custody. 

The Tenzin Delek Rinpoche Medal of Courage was launched in 2016 to honour the life and courage of Tenzin Delek Rinpoche. 

The Medal of Courage seeks to identify and honour Tibetan human rights defenders that take an active role in overcoming the injustice of the Chinese occupation of Tibet in a non-violent pursuit of freedom, justice, and human rights.

Tibetan human rights defenders are Tibetans, inside and outside Tibet, who act to promote and protect universally recognised human rights and fundamental freedoms of the Tibetan people. 

Award ceremonies have been hosted in Tokyo, Dharamsala, London, Washington DC, San Francisco. 

In 2024, the Tenzin Delek Rinpoche Medal of Courage is being graciously hosted by Tibet Solidarity in Edinburgh Scotland.