Prizes – The Freedom of Expression Tribute
The Freedom of Expression Tribute
The Freedom of Expression Foundation Tribute acknowledges remarkable efforts to promote free speech, often in connection with current affairs. Tributes are bestowed when someone deserves them, without any constraints on their number. Each Tribute is accompanied by a crystal vase, and a sum of money.
Recipients of The Freedom of Expression Tribute:
2013
Per Edgar Kokkvold is for his firm defence of freedom of expression, not least in the face of years of death threats, and for his many and sharp comments about journalistic practices, which have contributed to self-criticism and the self-regulation of the press.
Nils E. Øy for his indefatigable struggle over 40 years for full disclosure, free public access, editorial independence and professionalism, as well as for building up a unique archive of material in these fields.
Read more>
2012
Nina Johnsrud for her courageous journalism and defence of freedom of expression.
Read more>
Raya Bielenberg, Jahn Otto Johansen and Anne-Stine Johnsbråten for the thought-provoking contributions that the three have made through their words, music and photographs, drawing attention to the plight of the Roma people and communicating valuable insight into Roma culture and history.
Read more>
Simon Flem Devold for his ground-breaking involvement as an advocate of children's voices, life experience and rights through the column "På skråss" ("On the Q.T.") in Aftenposten, in which he often dealt with taboo topics.
Read more>
See YouTube
Louiza Louhibi for her courage in the debate about sexualised violence against women and for actively opposing extreme attitudes that are based on religious and political prejudices.
Read more >
See YouTube
2011
Odd S. Lovoll for his significant contribution to writing the history of Norwegian America.
Read more >
2010
Harald Eia for, through the programme Brainwash, having precipitated one of the most heated debates on research in recent times.
Dag Olav Hessen for, in an engaging manner, having conveyed scientific insight and making well-grounded contributions to the public debate.
Bjørn Roar Vassnes for his all-round, critical and independent contributions to the communication of scientific knowledge and debate.
Read more >
Speeches
Guri Hjeltnes til Bjørn Vassnes
Georg Fr. Rieber-Mohn til Dag Hessen
Grete Brochmann til Harald Eia
See YouTube
2009
Else Michelet for her wide-ranging accomplishments in radio journalism and especially for having developed the original, outspoken humorous radio series ”Hallo i uken” for NRK P2.”
Read more >
Erik Fosse and Mads Gilbert for their outstanding, unflagging eye witness accounts of the suffering sustained by the civilian population during the bombing of Gaza.
Read more >
2008
Arnhild Lauveng for having torn down barriers in mental health care with her books. She is a wise, fearless professional who uses experience from her own personal case to see solutions that give rise to all-important hope.
Read more - Video interview >
2007
Janet Garton and Ljubisa Rajic for their outstanding contributions to instruction in Norwegian language and literature at universities abroad.
Ebba Haslund for her life-long commitment to literature and freedom of expression.
Sissel Benneche Osvold for her activities as a keen, articulate writer, driven by a strong social conscience.
Niels Christian Geelmuyden for original, outspoken contributions to Norwegian public debate.
2006
Tom Martinsen for his unique contribution to the development and promotion of Norwegian photography in several genres: press, documentary and art photography.
2005
Trygve Refsdal and Hermund Slaattelid for their outstanding efforts to promote public education and the public debate.
2004
Kristian Ottosen for his exceptional contribution to gathering and communicating knowledge about the Norwegian prisoners of war during World War II.
2003
Willy A. Kirkeby for his contribution to Norwegian and international dictionary literature.
2002
Ottar Brox for his substantial contributions to the Norwegian social debate.
Åge Hovengen for his deep, enduring commitment to people of humble means and those on the periphery of society.
2001
Åsne Seierstad for her fearless, independent reports from war zones.
2000
Tor Bomann Larsen, Hans Fredrik Dahl, Geir Hestmark, Geir Kjetsaa and Torill Steinfeld for their invaluable contributions to Norwegian biographical literature.
Jan Otto Hauge, Reidar Hirsti, Ivan Kristoffersen and Arve Solstad for their efforts to promote an independent press.
Kadra for her courageous exposure of inhumane, punishable treatment of women.
1999
Aldo Keel for his comprehensive contributions to Bjørnson research.
1998
Kristin Brudevoll for her long-standing endeavours to promote Norwegian literature abroad.
Erik Damman for his committed attitude-shaping achievements.
Ørnulf Ranheimsæter for his outstanding essay art.
1997
Nasa Borba, Belgrade, for the newspaper's defence of freedom of expression in Serbia.
1996
Kari Risvik for the part she played in bringing Salman Rushdie's works to Norwegian readers.
Kari Vogt for her contribution to the understanding of Islam and the Muslim culture.
Christian Norberg-Schulz for his works on architecture.
Rune Slagstad for the development of the New Norwegian Magazine and his contributions to the social debate.
Cato Guhnfeldt for his unique historic authorship, based on meticulous, investigative surveys.
1996
Axel Jensen for his innovative poetry and strong defence of the freedom of expression.
Knut Wigert for his unstinting work with the Ibsen Museum in Arbinsgate and for his dedication to communicating Ibsen's words.
1995
Harald Noreng for his completion of the Norwegian Dictionary of Riksmål.
Hans P.S. Knudsen for his tenacious research on the history of popular reading in Norwegian.
1994
Carl Fredrik Thorsager, Sjølingstad, for his enthusiastic efforts to preserve a traditional industrial setting.
Helga Arntzen for her initiative to use, and valuable use of White Buses to Auschwitz.
1993
Jon Godal, Coastal Museum, Rissa, and Sverre Ødegaard, Mining Museum, Røros, for outstanding museum work and the excellent presentation of culture.
Arild Haaland for versatile cultural work and committed, unflagging participation in the social debate.
Dagmar Loe for bold, investigative journalism and unselfish working methods in the press and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation.
Anne-May Nilsen for her pioneer work that has made The Open Theatre a showcase for contemporary Norwegian drama.
1992
Odd Abrahamsen for his poetic endeavours on behalf of the Baltic states.
Arquebus Museum of War History for tenacious voluntary work to preserve valuable material about Norway during the Occupation.
Svein Ellingsen, Erik Hillestad and Egil Hovland for their innovative activities in sacral art.
1991
The Aur Prestegård Foundation for the reverent restoration of the tenant's house at the old parsonage.
1990
Jahn Thon for insightful, stimulating literary criticism on the occasion of Arnulf Øverland's 100th birthday.
Egil Bakke for persistent financial publicist activities to the delight of his readers.
Edvard Beyer for his initiative to compile and work on the History of Norwegian Literary Criticism 1770–1940.
Elisabeth Gording for her life-long efforts on behalf of theatre for children and young people.
Grandmothers at Parliament Square for their ceaseless efforts to promote peace.
Sidsel Mørch for the dauntless use of the free word in her pioneering efforts for environmental protection.
1990
Hå Gamle Prestegard for the restoration of a valuable farmyard and for organising dynamic cultural activities in the buildings.
Espevær Housewives Association for the pious restoration of the old House of Prayer.
Thomas Thiis-Evensen for first-rate cultural journalism.
1988
Barthelemy Niava for promoting intercultural understanding by spreading information about African culture in Norway and making Norway better known in Africa.
1987
Petter Wessel Zapffe for his multi-faceted and original writing.
Harald Tveterås for his seminal research on Norwegian publishing, bookstores and popular reading.
Birgitte Grimstad for her all-round accomplishments and lasting commitment to bringing cherished Norwegian and foreign ballads to life.
Lillebjørn Nilsen for his innovation of Norwegian ballad traditions as a lyricist, composer and artist.
1986
Åge Rønning for his authorship, which is characterised by a creative imagination that stretches far beyond Norway's national frontiers.
Odd Kvaal Pedersen for far-sighted, far-reaching exertions to publicise information about the oppressed population of South Africa and to help address other problems in developing countries.
Radio Immigration for the active use of its autonomous local radio station to promote mutual understanding of the cultural and social conditions that apply to immigrants and Norwegians in Norway.
Anders Bratholm for his long-standing commitment and fearless use of free speech in the public debate, most recently in connection with a case of police violence.
1985
Johs. Andenæs for, through the energetic use of free speech, having undertaken the task of educating the entire nation of Norway about the principles of jurisprudence and justice.
Carsten Smith for his work as chairman for the Saami Rights Commission.
Dag Sørli for his efforts to promote the printed word in Norway's northernmost region.
1984
Arvid Hanssen for his authorship, which has enriched Norway's national ballad traditions and poetry by its authentic, dynamic and stylistically consistent use of the language of northern Norway.
Lars Roar Langslet for, through a combination of boldness and caution, having paved the way for experiments with freer forms of broadcasting.
Alf Steinsøy for, through his monumental local history of Solund, having shed light on the genealogical origins of the people in the westernmost settlement in Norway.
Anne-Lisa Amadou for her translation to Norwegian of Marcel Proust's cyclic novel In Search of Lost Time.
1982
Hans Børli for the gifts he has given to the Norwegian people through his poetry.
1980
Philip Houm for his contribution to the struggle for intellectual freedom and tolerance in an area where suppression and making heretics out of people who think differently has been ubiquitous.
Hermod Skånland for consistently, and in a frank, fearless manner, directing media attention towards certain misgivings about the development of Norway's economy.
Anne Ma Ødegaard for using freedom of speech to defend a disadvantaged group, despite the fact that she exposed herself to disapproval and criticism in her own environment.
1979
Hans Heiberg (posthumous) for the vigorous, gifted and fearless - but never irresponsible – use of free speech over the course of 50 years.
The Freedom of Expression Tribute
The Freedom of Expression Foundation Tribute acknowledges remarkable efforts to promote free speech, often in connection with current affairs. Tributes are bestowed when someone deserves them, without any constraints on their number. Each Tribute is accompanied by a crystal vase, and a sum of money.
Recipients of The Freedom of Expression Tribute:
2013
Per Edgar Kokkvold is for his firm defence of freedom of expression, not least in the face of years of death threats, and for his many and sharp comments about journalistic practices, which have contributed to self-criticism and the self-regulation of the press.
Nils E. Øy for his indefatigable struggle over 40 years for full disclosure, free public access, editorial independence and professionalism, as well as for building up a unique archive of material in these fields.
Read more>
2012
Nina Johnsrud for her courageous journalism and defence of freedom of expression.
Read more>
Raya Bielenberg, Jahn Otto Johansen and Anne-Stine Johnsbråten for the thought-provoking contributions that the three have made through their words, music and photographs, drawing attention to the plight of the Roma people and communicating valuable insight into Roma culture and history.
Read more>
Simon Flem Devold for his ground-breaking involvement as an advocate of children's voices, life experience and rights through the column "På skråss" ("On the Q.T.") in Aftenposten, in which he often dealt with taboo topics.
Read more>
See YouTube
Louiza Louhibi for her courage in the debate about sexualised violence against women and for actively opposing extreme attitudes that are based on religious and political prejudices.
Read more >
See YouTube
2011
Odd S. Lovoll for his significant contribution to writing the history of Norwegian America.
Read more >
2010
Harald Eia for, through the programme Brainwash, having precipitated one of the most heated debates on research in recent times.
Dag Olav Hessen for, in an engaging manner, having conveyed scientific insight and making well-grounded contributions to the public debate.
Bjørn Roar Vassnes for his all-round, critical and independent contributions to the communication of scientific knowledge and debate.
Read more >
Speeches
Guri Hjeltnes til Bjørn Vassnes
Georg Fr. Rieber-Mohn til Dag Hessen
Grete Brochmann til Harald Eia
See YouTube
2009
Else Michelet for her wide-ranging accomplishments in radio journalism and especially for having developed the original, outspoken humorous radio series ”Hallo i uken” for NRK P2.”
Read more >
Erik Fosse and Mads Gilbert for their outstanding, unflagging eye witness accounts of the suffering sustained by the civilian population during the bombing of Gaza.
Read more >
2008
Arnhild Lauveng for having torn down barriers in mental health care with her books. She is a wise, fearless professional who uses experience from her own personal case to see solutions that give rise to all-important hope.
Read more - Video interview >
2007
Janet Garton and Ljubisa Rajic for their outstanding contributions to instruction in Norwegian language and literature at universities abroad.
Ebba Haslund for her life-long commitment to literature and freedom of expression.
Sissel Benneche Osvold for her activities as a keen, articulate writer, driven by a strong social conscience.
Niels Christian Geelmuyden for original, outspoken contributions to Norwegian public debate.
2006
Tom Martinsen for his unique contribution to the development and promotion of Norwegian photography in several genres: press, documentary and art photography.
2005
Trygve Refsdal and Hermund Slaattelid for their outstanding efforts to promote public education and the public debate.
2004
Kristian Ottosen for his exceptional contribution to gathering and communicating knowledge about the Norwegian prisoners of war during World War II.
2003
Willy A. Kirkeby for his contribution to Norwegian and international dictionary literature.
2002
Ottar Brox for his substantial contributions to the Norwegian social debate.
Åge Hovengen for his deep, enduring commitment to people of humble means and those on the periphery of society.
2001
Åsne Seierstad for her fearless, independent reports from war zones.
2000
Tor Bomann Larsen, Hans Fredrik Dahl, Geir Hestmark, Geir Kjetsaa and Torill Steinfeld for their invaluable contributions to Norwegian biographical literature.
Jan Otto Hauge, Reidar Hirsti, Ivan Kristoffersen and Arve Solstad for their efforts to promote an independent press.
Kadra for her courageous exposure of inhumane, punishable treatment of women.
1999
Aldo Keel for his comprehensive contributions to Bjørnson research.
1998
Kristin Brudevoll for her long-standing endeavours to promote Norwegian literature abroad.
Erik Damman for his committed attitude-shaping achievements.
Ørnulf Ranheimsæter for his outstanding essay art.
1997
Nasa Borba, Belgrade, for the newspaper's defence of freedom of expression in Serbia.
1996
Kari Risvik for the part she played in bringing Salman Rushdie's works to Norwegian readers.
Kari Vogt for her contribution to the understanding of Islam and the Muslim culture.
Christian Norberg-Schulz for his works on architecture.
Rune Slagstad for the development of the New Norwegian Magazine and his contributions to the social debate.
Cato Guhnfeldt for his unique historic authorship, based on meticulous, investigative surveys.
1996
Axel Jensen for his innovative poetry and strong defence of the freedom of expression.
Knut Wigert for his unstinting work with the Ibsen Museum in Arbinsgate and for his dedication to communicating Ibsen's words.
1995
Harald Noreng for his completion of the Norwegian Dictionary of Riksmål.
Hans P.S. Knudsen for his tenacious research on the history of popular reading in Norwegian.
1994
Carl Fredrik Thorsager, Sjølingstad, for his enthusiastic efforts to preserve a traditional industrial setting.
Helga Arntzen for her initiative to use, and valuable use of White Buses to Auschwitz.
1993
Jon Godal, Coastal Museum, Rissa, and Sverre Ødegaard, Mining Museum, Røros, for outstanding museum work and the excellent presentation of culture.
Arild Haaland for versatile cultural work and committed, unflagging participation in the social debate.
Dagmar Loe for bold, investigative journalism and unselfish working methods in the press and the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation.
Anne-May Nilsen for her pioneer work that has made The Open Theatre a showcase for contemporary Norwegian drama.
1992
Odd Abrahamsen for his poetic endeavours on behalf of the Baltic states.
Arquebus Museum of War History for tenacious voluntary work to preserve valuable material about Norway during the Occupation.
Svein Ellingsen, Erik Hillestad and Egil Hovland for their innovative activities in sacral art.
1991
The Aur Prestegård Foundation for the reverent restoration of the tenant's house at the old parsonage.
1990
Jahn Thon for insightful, stimulating literary criticism on the occasion of Arnulf Øverland's 100th birthday.
Egil Bakke for persistent financial publicist activities to the delight of his readers.
Edvard Beyer for his initiative to compile and work on the History of Norwegian Literary Criticism 1770–1940.
Elisabeth Gording for her life-long efforts on behalf of theatre for children and young people.
Grandmothers at Parliament Square for their ceaseless efforts to promote peace.
Sidsel Mørch for the dauntless use of the free word in her pioneering efforts for environmental protection.
1990
Hå Gamle Prestegard for the restoration of a valuable farmyard and for organising dynamic cultural activities in the buildings.
Espevær Housewives Association for the pious restoration of the old House of Prayer.
Thomas Thiis-Evensen for first-rate cultural journalism.
1988
Barthelemy Niava for promoting intercultural understanding by spreading information about African culture in Norway and making Norway better known in Africa.
1987
Petter Wessel Zapffe for his multi-faceted and original writing.
Harald Tveterås for his seminal research on Norwegian publishing, bookstores and popular reading.
Birgitte Grimstad for her all-round accomplishments and lasting commitment to bringing cherished Norwegian and foreign ballads to life.
Lillebjørn Nilsen for his innovation of Norwegian ballad traditions as a lyricist, composer and artist.
1986
Åge Rønning for his authorship, which is characterised by a creative imagination that stretches far beyond Norway's national frontiers.
Odd Kvaal Pedersen for far-sighted, far-reaching exertions to publicise information about the oppressed population of South Africa and to help address other problems in developing countries.
Radio Immigration for the active use of its autonomous local radio station to promote mutual understanding of the cultural and social conditions that apply to immigrants and Norwegians in Norway.
Anders Bratholm for his long-standing commitment and fearless use of free speech in the public debate, most recently in connection with a case of police violence.
1985
Johs. Andenæs for, through the energetic use of free speech, having undertaken the task of educating the entire nation of Norway about the principles of jurisprudence and justice.
Carsten Smith for his work as chairman for the Saami Rights Commission.
Dag Sørli for his efforts to promote the printed word in Norway's northernmost region.
1984
Arvid Hanssen for his authorship, which has enriched Norway's national ballad traditions and poetry by its authentic, dynamic and stylistically consistent use of the language of northern Norway.
Lars Roar Langslet for, through a combination of boldness and caution, having paved the way for experiments with freer forms of broadcasting.
Alf Steinsøy for, through his monumental local history of Solund, having shed light on the genealogical origins of the people in the westernmost settlement in Norway.
Anne-Lisa Amadou for her translation to Norwegian of Marcel Proust's cyclic novel In Search of Lost Time.
1982
Hans Børli for the gifts he has given to the Norwegian people through his poetry.
1980
Philip Houm for his contribution to the struggle for intellectual freedom and tolerance in an area where suppression and making heretics out of people who think differently has been ubiquitous.
Hermod Skånland for consistently, and in a frank, fearless manner, directing media attention towards certain misgivings about the development of Norway's economy.
Anne Ma Ødegaard for using freedom of speech to defend a disadvantaged group, despite the fact that she exposed herself to disapproval and criticism in her own environment.
1979
Hans Heiberg (posthumous) for the vigorous, gifted and fearless - but never irresponsible – use of free speech over the course of 50 years.
Prizes