Journalists and news organizations based in the United States who have faced tough ethical decisions can be nominated for an award.

The Payne Awards for Ethics in Journalism recognize journalists and student journalists who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to ethical conduct, even when faced with economic, personal or political pressure. Nominees must be based in the US or work for US organizations and their work must have been broadcast, published or posted there.

Last year's winner included Scott Carney, a freelancer who followed the story of a child who was kidnapped from his parents in India and sold through intermediaries and corrupt adoption agencies to an American family for Mother Jones.

Journalists and outlets can nominate themselves, or be nominated by a third party. Winners will be announced in April, 2011. For more information, click here.