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WEXFO launches 2026 conference program exploring disagreement, power and the future of democracy

The World Expression Forum (WEXFO) has launched the program for WEXFO 2026, “The Freedom to Disagree” – an international conference addressing the shrinking space for disagreement worldwide.

WEXFO seeks Norwegian participants for More Young Voices 2026

World Expression Forum (WEXFO) is now inviting young people from Norway aged 18–25 to apply for WEXFO More Young Voices 2026 – an international Erasmus+ group exchange focused on freedom of expression, youth participation, and democratic engagement.

Arizza Nocum and Chetan Rastogi to host this year’s WEXFO conference

WEXFO 2026 will be guided on stage by program committee chair Arizza Nocum and journalist Chetan Rastogi as the conference convenes in Lillehammer on 1–2 June under the theme “The Freedom to Disagree.”

Louis Theroux to join WEXFO 2026 in Lillehammer

World Expression Forum (WEXFO) announces award-winning documentary presenter Louis Theroux as speaker at this year’s global freedom of expression conference in Lillehammer June, 1-3.

V-Dem 2026: Freedom of expression under historic pressure

The new V-Dem Democracy Report 2026, released today, paints a dark picture of the global state of democracy. For the average world citizen, democracy has regressed to 1978 levels – nearly wiping out the gains of the “third wave of democratization.”

Norwegian Prime Minister and Maria Ressa in in-depth conversation at WEXFO

Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Støre and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa will meet on stage for an in-depth conversation on the opening day of the World Expression Forum (WEXFO), taking place in Lillehammer from 1–3 June.

WEXFO calls for the protection of freedom of expression following the arrest of Imaan Mazari-Hazir

The World Expression Forum (WEXFO) expresses its solidarity with award-winning human rights lawyer Imaan Mazari-Hazir and reaffirms its commitment to protecting freedom of expression worldwide.

WEXFO announces 2026 conference theme: The Freedom to Disagree

In a time when polarization threatens our sense of community, WEXFO’s 2026 theme highlights how disagreement and dialogue strengthen freedom of expression and contribute to democratic resilience.

What does freedom of expression mean for the young generation?

In an era where information flows faster than ever, young people are navigating a complex landscape of truths, half-truths, and outright misinformation. This reality shapes not only their understanding of the world but also their ability to participate meaningfully in democratic dialogue.

WEXFO calls for a fair trial for freedom of expression award winner Imaan Mazari-Hazir

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.

Democracy is built on reading skills

Democracy is built on reading skills

From a global perspective, the democratic progress achieved over the last 35 years has now disappeared. At the same time, reading skills have declined. Reading is democracy’s and freedom’s most important weapon.

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New WEXFO Youth project with Nansen Academy

New WEXFO Youth project with Nansen Academy

WEXFO Nansen Academy Dialogue Seminar will focus on dialogue as a tool in conflict situations and aims to make participants even more equipped in their own work. Our experience is that by using dialogue as a method and establishing safe spaces for expression, more people will dare to express themselves, even on difficult topics. This is especially useful in situations that are perceived as locked.

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Together for “Leseløft Lillehammer”

Together for “Leseløft Lillehammer”

The schools, kindergartens and library of Lillehammer Kommune are collaborating with World Expression Forum and the Norwegian Festival of Literature to increase reading skills and the joy of reading among children in Lillehammer. Recently, we met to share experiences and insights and further plan our research-based, coordinated and long-term work for a reading boost for children.

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