LI Prize for Freedom

Award Ceremony Honouring Osman Kavala

On 4 May 2026, distinguished guests, policymakers, and advocates for human rights will gather in Berlin for the Liberal International Prize for Freedom Award Ceremony - an event that stands as a powerful testament to the enduring global commitment to liberty, justice, and civil society.

Hosted by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom and Liberal International, the ceremony will honor Osman Kavala, a Turkish entrepreneur, philanthropist, and prominent advocate for dialogue and cultural exchange.

Honouring Courage and Commitment

Osman Kavala has long been recognized for his dedication to fostering reconciliation and strengthening civil society through initiatives such as his foundation Anadolu Kültür. His work has built bridges across communities and borders, promoting cultural understanding and democratic values.

Since 2017, Kavala has been unjustly imprisoned in Turkey, and his continued detention - despite widespread international criticism - has made him a symbol of the global struggle for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

In recognition of his unwavering commitment, the Prize for Freedom will be awarded to him, with the acceptance speech delivered on his behalf by his wife,  Ayşe Buğra, a Turkish social scientist and emerita professor of political economy.

You can find photos of the event here: https://cloud.freiheit.org/index.php/s/c5ZgiHGxHbd9w3x