Nominations are open for WEXFO Utøya Young Experts 2026

World Expression Forum (WEXFO) is deeply concerned about the ongoing legal proceedings against human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari-Hazir in Islamabad, reported in Pakistani and international media. As the recipient of the WEXFO Young Inspiration Award, Mazari-Hazir represents young voices fighting for the rule of law and freedom of expression.

Propaganda and disinformation are embedded in the way we consume information every day. Algorithms amplify lies, emotions drive engagement, and societies splinter under the weight of manipulation. At WEXFO 2025 in Lillehammer, four leading voices shared why awareness and resilience are critical for democracy.

During WEXFO 2025 in Lillehammer, we interviewed three leading voices to reflect on one of the most fundamental pillars of democracy: reading. In a world of growing polarization, disinformation, and fragmented realities, literacy is not just a skill – it is a necessity for citizenship building.

Ingunn Trosholmen is stepping into the role as the new CEO of World Expression Forum (WEXFO). In this interview, she shares what inspired her to take on the position, her thoughts on the years ahead, and why Lillehammer offers a unique setting for global conversations on freedom of expression.

Legal protections for free expression are widespread, but in professional life, many still stay silent. At WEXFO 2025, a panel representing legal expertise, advocacy and journalism explored why rights on paper don’t always translate into real freedom.

World Expression Forum’s Annual Report for 2025 is now live. The report reflects a year defined by resistance, global dialogue, and strong youth engagement for freedom of expression and democracy.

Led by Arizza Nocum – co-founder and President of KRIS, and a former WEXFO Young Expert and member of the program committee – a highly experienced and diverse group is now working to curate engaging and relevant topics and speakers for WEXFO 2026, which will take place in Lillehammer, Norway, from 1 to 3 June.

Ingunn Trosholmen will assume the role of Managing Director from January 1, 2026. She joins WEXFO from her current position as State Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister of Norway.

On 23 September, the Norwegian government presented its National Strategy for an Open and Enlightened Public Discourse. The Director of WEXFO contributed in a panel at the official launch.

In September, Norway’s media industry launched a joint campaign to raise awareness among 18-30-year-olds about the value of trustworthy, fact-based journalism. The campaign encourages critical thinking in a media landscape shaped by social platforms and an increasing volume of disinformation.