Laureates since 1982

KOFI ANNAN

International Four Freedoms Award

Born in Kumasi, Ghana in 1938. In 1962 he joined the United Nations and served in a great variety of functions until he he was elected Secretary-General in 1997. During his two terms he revitalized the UN. For his strong personal commitment to international cooperation and tolerance and for strengthening the UN as a guardian of worldwide peace and social justice.

LENNART MERI

Freedom of Speech and Expression Award

Born in 1929 Tallinn, Estonia. His books and films about isolated areas were beacons of hope that the Soviet occupation would not last and reminders of the strength and vitality of national identities. In 1992 he became President of the Republic of Estonia, bringing his country closer into Europe and NATO. For his creative efforts to preserve the history and language of Estonia and for his leadership in strengthening Estonia’s commitment to freedom.

SARI NUSSEIBEH

Freedom of Worship Award

Born in 1949, in Shaykh Jarrar, East Jerusalem, he devoted his life to crossing boundaries and breaking down walls as a philosopher, teacher, and president of al-Quds University in East Jerusalem. He was involved in finding peaceful solutions for the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and suffered personally for his outspoken pleas for open boundaries. For his inspiring, creative, and brave championship of nonviolence in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians and for his personal courage.

MAGGUIE BARANKITSE

Freedom from Want Award

Born in the Burundi province of Ruyigi in 1956, she devoted her life to help orphans and victims of AIDS regardless of ethnic backgrounds. She founded Maison Shalom, which provides shelter, food, as well as an education to children in a protected community. For her love for and confidence in Burundi and her powerful voice for the protection of the rights of children everywhere.

MAX KOHNSTAMM

Freedom from Fear Award

Born in 1914 in Amsterdam. After World War II he researched, advanced and prepared the framework for the European Community most prominently as the Secretary General of the Action Committee for the United States of Europe (1956-1975), under chairman Jean Monnet. For his role as a pioneer of European integration and his advocacy of stability and solidarity.