The Pim Fortuyn Prize jury has announced this year’s five nominees. Juror and JA21 leader Joost Eerdmans revealed the shortlist on Wednesday, marking the anniversary of the death of the award’s namesake. This marks the twelfth edition of the prize, which honours commentators, officials, or politicians who defend freedom of speech.
Nominees for the 2024 award
Singer Lenny Kuhr received a nomination for her refusal to be intimidated as a Jewish woman with family in Israel. The organisation noted her continued warnings regarding rising antisemitism. Activists disrupted her performance in Waalwijk earlier this year, shouting insults at her regarding the conflict in the Middle East.
Columnist Martin Sommer earned his place for his well-founded criticism of immigration and government policy. His work gained a significant following at De Volkskrant before he moved to EW Magazine.
Critics and commentators
The other contenders include writer and theatre-maker Michiel Lieuwma, political cartoonist Cortés, and writer Keyvan Shahbazi. Lieuwma explores complex topics in his podcast, where he questions moral posturing and the dismissal of dissenting views. Cortés, the resident cartoonist for GeenStijl, creates controversial illustrations about multiculturalism and media freedom.
Keyvan Shahbazi returns to the shortlist after being nominated last year. Eerdmans highlighted Shahbazi’s frequent commentary on Iran and his critiques of political Islam. Despite threats to his life, the Iranian-Dutch writer continues to advocate for a secular and democratic Iran.
Jury and legacy
Last year, former minister and columnist Ronald Plasterk won the rotating trophy. The current jury consists of Eerdmans, chairman Simon Fortuyn, Professor Afshin Ellian, and psychiatrist Esther van Fenema. Pim Fortuyn was assassinated in Hilversum on 6 May 2002, shortly before the general election.
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