Potsdam, Germany – The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom has announced that it will be awarding its prestigious Freedom Prize to the brave people of Iran on November 7th, 2026 at St. Paul’s Church in Frankfurt. The foundation, which aims to promote liberal civil society and strengthen values of freedom around the world, has been awarding the Freedom Prize every two years since 2006.
Chairman of the Board, Steffen Saebisch, stated, “We are deliberately awarding the Freedom Prize to the Iranian people as a whole, rather than an individual. We want to recognize the tireless efforts of the hundreds of thousands of individuals who have risked their lives to overthrow the oppressive mullah regime.”
The foundation has chosen Reza Pahlavi, a prominent figure in the Iranian opposition, to accept the award on behalf of the Iranian people. Pahlavi, who is committed to the return of freedom and democracy in Iran, has been asked to receive the award in trust until it can be presented to the freely elected representatives of Iran.
Saebisch added, “We are honored to have Reza Pahlavi accept the award on behalf of the Iranian people. He is a well-known figure in the opposition and holds a strong commitment to democracy and the freedom of the Iranian people.”
The Freedom Prize is dedicated to all those who have fought for their rights, freedom, and a democratic society. It is a tribute to those who have lost their lives in the struggle against the oppressive regime and those who continue to be persecuted and imprisoned for their beliefs.
The foundation hopes to shed light on the countless unnamed individuals who have shown great courage and resilience in their fight for freedom. The prize is a symbol of solidarity and a call to the international community to protect the rights of all Iranians and support their demands for freedom.
The Iranian people have shown immense bravery in standing up against the oppressive theocratic regime, which has ruled with great disregard for basic human rights. Despite the risks, they have taken to the streets to have their voices heard and demand their fundamental rights.
The foundation believes that the Iranian people are a shining example of how an open society can emerge even in the face of suppression. They serve as a reminder that freedom is indivisible and begins with the courage of individuals to speak out.
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is committed to recognizing and honoring those who fight for freedom and democracy in Iran. By awarding the Freedom Prize to the Iranian people, the foundation hopes to send a clear message that the struggle for freedom has the full support of the liberal community.
For further information, please contact presse@freiheit.org.
