Palm-Award

Johann-Philipp-Palm-Award for Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom

By granting the Palm-Award, we want to contribute to enforcing and preserving freedom of speech and freedom of the press as an indispensable prerequisite for any democracy, both at home and abroad.

Democracy requires informed citizens and fair competition between competing opinions. The fundamental rights of communication occupy a pre-eminent position in the liberal-democratic constitutional structure and need to be constantly gained anew. The basis of a free society is built by people who provide information responsibly, who voice their ideas both for the greater good but also on behalf of their own interests. Anyone who forbids them to speak fears the judgement of the democratic majority. Anyone who suppresses, persecutes, intimidates or kills them is violating a fundamental human right.

For Freedom. Against Violence.

We award the Palm-Award to women, men and organisations who demonstrate exceptional dedication to achieving freedom of speech and freedom of the press.

They should be encouraged – and they will motivate others through their example.

The award money totals € 20,000
It is awarded to two people or organisations in equal shares
The central award criterion is direct, ongoing and comprehensive commitment to freedom of speech and freedom of the press by peaceful means. The award is granted for a lifetime achievement
A balance in attitude and reporting is required. The Palm-Foundation represents the values of liberal democracy and universal human rights. It is independent and impartial
The award is granted every even-numbered year on the first Sunday of Advent in Schorndorf, Germany