“This year’s World Expression Forum will be the most significant so far. Freedom of expression is under threat from various quarters, and conflict levels are rising in many places around the world, including Europe. War, conflict, the rise of artificial intelligence, and increased polarization and disinformation contribute to a more challenging climate for debate. Access to free information and literature is restricted for many. The world is facing a crisis of trust between people, authorities, and the media. Freedom of expression is the key to regaining trust and strengthening the development of democracy.” – Kristenn Einarsson, Managing Director of WEXFO.

At our third annual conference, we are again honoured and excited to have a number of high-esteemed speakers, who will comment on the overall question: «The Global Free Speech Recession – and How to Fight It?”

The 2024 conference provides great opportunities for in-depth studies and discussions. The entire afternoon of the first conference day is set aside for breakout sessions and workshops, with more space also for networking.

WEXFO Youth will also be an important part of the event. Through different youth programs, more than 110 participants in the age group 18-33 years will attend the congress. More than 1,000 youngsters in the age group 13-18 years will attend the WEXO Youth Voices program, arranged in parallel with the WEXFO conference. On 29 May, the second WEXFO Youth Network Conference will take place at the same location.

Enjoy high-esteemed speakers and engage in workshops and in-depth discussions

At this year’s conference, you will also have the option to extend your participation with an excursion to Utøya (26 May) and a ticket to the WEXFO Youth Network Conference (29 May) – both are included as add-on activities in the WEXFO 2024 conference pass.

• At Utøya, you can take part in an exclusive generational meeting about freedom of expression. Here you will meet 70 young experts from approximately 50 countries.
• The WEXFO Youth Network Conference brings together over 120 participants under the age of 33 to exchange experience and insights, as well as activists and organisations working for freedom of expression and youth issues. Experience how young people get involved in the national and global initiatives to strengthen freedom of expression.

Meet with young experts at Utøya and be inspired at WEXFO Youth Network Conference

Lillehammer – our conference city

WEXFO takes place annually in Lillehammer, Norway, in May/June. Norway is one of the countries in the world with the highest degree of freedom of expression, according to Freedom of expression index (Our World in Data). Lillehammer is a UNESCO City of Literature, an ICORN city of refuge for artists at risk, and is the host of the biggest literature festival in Scandinavia. Both the city, the region (Innlandet) and Norway as a country are committed to supporting freedom of expression around the world.