The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) is thrilled to announce the latest additions to the lineup of speakers for the 16th annual Oslo Freedom Forum, taking place in Oslo, Norway, from June 3 to 5.
This year’s Forum promises to be an inspiring gathering of some of the world’s most dedicated and courageous voices. Remarkable individuals will share their experiences, insights, and strategies in the ongoing struggle for freedom and democracy.
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Pioneer clinician, researcher, and best-selling author
Van der Kolk is the author of the No. 1 New York Times Science bestseller, “The Body Keeps the Score.” His work uniquely integrates developmental, neurobiological, psychodynamic, somatic, and interpersonal aspects of the impact of trauma and its treatment.
Zhala Bayramova
Azerbaijani human rights lawyer
Bayramova has represented major human rights cases, from LGBTQIA+ rights to election violations to freedom of expression. Amid the ongoing suppression of civil society in Azerbaijan, they continue to advocate for political prisoners, including their father and political activist, Dr. Gubad Ibadoghlu.
Carlos Chamorro
Exiled Nicaraguan journalist
Since 1978, Chamorro’s journalism has challenged the dictatorships of Anastasio Somoza and Daniel Ortega and earned him numerous awards. In recent years, his investigative work has exposed widespread corruption and human rights violations in Nicaragua, forcing him into exile in Costa Rica.
Anastasia Shevchenko
Russian politician and opposition figure
Deemed a “threat” to Russia’s constitutional order and security, Shevchenko was placed under house arrest in 2019 and later handed a 4.5-year suspended sentence, becoming the first person in Russia to be persecuted under politically motivated charges of participating in an “undesirable organization.” In 2022, Shevchenko fled Russia with her children.
Agather Atuhaire
Ugandan journalist and digital activist
Atuhaire is the host of Agora Discourse, a digital public square, and has worked as a television news commentator in Uganda. Through her journalism and social media activism. Atuhaire has exposed high-profile public corruption scandals that sparked national conversations and promoted policy changes.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear their stories firsthand and join them in the global movement for human rights. Stay tuned for additional speaker announcements, and register for OFF today!
You can find additional details about the event and participating speakers at oslofreedomforum.com, and regular updates on our X and Instagram.
If you are interested in sponsoring the Oslo Freedom Forum, please contact [email protected]. If you are interested in attending as a member of the media, please contact [email protected]
If you are interested in bringing your family to the OFF Camp for Kids, please contact [email protected] by April 15. OFF Kids is an interdisciplinary human rights camp that includes fun activities, sports, and educational programming around the city of Oslo.