The renowned lawyer and Muslim feminist returns to Lillehammer on June 2 and 3 to speak about freedom of expression and democracy.
“Real and resilient democracies are particularly characterized by the fact that they protect the freedom of expression of all people – no matter how radical the views may be,” says Ates.
At the World Expression Forum (WEXFO) 2025, Ates will be on stage in conversation with Charlie Hebdo editor Gérard Biard, ten years after the terrorist attack on the French satirical magazine that killed 12 people and injured 11. The conversation will be part of the conference’s closing session which will discuss promoting informed citizens for a thriving democracy.
“As long as the freedom of expression of those who think differently is not threatened, we can be sure that the enjoyment of plurality and diversity is possible. Enemies of freedom of expression threaten plurality and diversity and thereby forfeit their own right to freedom of expression.”
The 2025 conference will be Ates’ second WEXFO appearance. She also joined the conference in 2023.
Photo: Private
“I am very much looking forward to feeling the spirit of freedom of expression at WEXFO. It is important that we keep reminding and reassuring each other of the importance of standing up for freedom of expression.”
WEXFO is an annual global event dedicated to promoting freedom of expression and democracy. The forum will take place on June 2 and 3, 2025 in Lillehammer, Norway, and brings together participants from the fields of art, politics, culture, business, media and youth worldwide to discuss and strengthen freedom of expression.
Top photo: WEXFO
