The Voltaire Prize for Tolerance, International Understanding and Respect for Differences
The Voltaire Prize Winners 2017-2026
"The selection process of the past few years has shown in how many countries freedom of research and teaching is at risk or does not exist (anymore)," said the President of the University of Potsdam, Prof. Oliver Günther, Ph.D. „It is all the more important that we set an example with the Voltaire Prize and give thanks and recognition to those who oppose the anti-enlightenment tendencies. Because the prize is not only for the award winners, but for all brave scientists worldwide who say no to totalitarianism and restrictions on freedom of expression and speech.“
With its decision, the jury honours the young researcher Dr Haci Cevik, who originates from Turkey. In the jury's view, Dr Cevik fulfils the criteria of the Voltaire Prize outstandingly. Through his research on Kurdish identity, minority rights, and discrimination against refugees in Turkey, he gives visibility to marginalised communities and challenges dominant narratives as well as political silence. His work has raised international awareness of little-recognised groups and deepened understanding of coexistence, prejudice, and migration.
This year the "Voltaire Prize for Tolerance, International Understanding and Respect for Differences" will be awarded to argentinian sociologist Prof. Dr. Rosario Figari Layús from the Center for Reconciliation Studies at the rhenish Friedrich-Wilhelms-University of Bonn. With this accolade the University of Potsdam honors scholars that have shown special commitment to social discourse, freedom of research and teaching and the right to freedom of expression. Prof. Dr. Rosario Figari Layús dedicates her research and social activism to the defense of human rights, scientific enlightenment as well as the the promotion of justice and peace, especially in Latin America.
