👑The Iranian flag of freedom waving in the cradle of Germany’s democracy; Prince Reza Pahlavi receives the Freedom Prize 2026 on behalf of the people of Iran

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), a long-standing and reputable institution affiliated with Germany’s Free Democratic Party (FDP), announced in an official statement that it will award its “Freedom Prize 2026” collectively to the people of Iran.

This major decision has been made in recognition of the unparalleled courage, the ongoing sacrifices, and the steadfast resolve of Iranian women and men in the struggle to achieve freedom, human rights, and democratic values.

According to the foundation’s announcement, Prince Reza Pahlavi—among the most prominent figures of the leading opposition—will receive this prestigious international award in trust and on behalf of the Iranian people.

Friedrich Naumann Foundation officials explicitly emphasized that this prize does not belong to a single individual; rather, its aim is to honor the collective will of a society that stands against the civil and religious government ruling Iran. The award will remain in trust with Prince Reza Pahlavi until the day it becomes possible to transfer it to the legal representatives of a free and democratic Iran.

This historic event is scheduled to be held on November 7, 2026 (16 Aban) at the historic Paulskirche church in the city of Frankfurt, Germany. The choice of this location—as the cradle of the first parliament and a symbol of Germany’s democratic history—has further increased the symbolic importance and value of the ceremony.

Reports also indicate that Bijan Jirsarayi, a prominent Iranian-German politician and former Secretary-General of Germany’s Free Democratic Party, will deliver the ceremony’s main celebratory speech (Laudatio) in support of the freedom-seeking movement and in solidarity with the people of Iran. This prize, which in past editions had been awarded to human-rights advocates such as Vladimir Kara-Murza, is now reflecting the clear and resonant voice and the justice-seeking spirit of a nation that has drawn the world’s attention to its struggle.