Events
Whether through small, focused events or larger public gatherings, our events offer a platform to activists, policy experts, academics, and civil society leaders interested in fostering informed debate about the challenges facing democracy today.
Upcoming Events
2025 Annual Awards
Freedom House recognized a distinguished slate of advocates for democracy and freedom around the globe at its Annual Awards in Washington, DC on May 20, 2025. Award recipients included Venezuelan democratic movement leader María Corina Machado, US Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Roger F. Wicker (R-MS), representatives from the government and civil society of Taiwan, and Server Mustafayev, an unjustly imprisoned Crimean Tatar human rights defender.
2024 Annual Awards
At Freedom House’s Annual Awards in May 2024, Freedom House honored imprisoned Chinese prodemocracy activist Dr. Wang Bingzhang and the US public servants and diplomats of Operation Nica Welcome in recognition of their brave stances against tyranny and dedication to freedom. The organization also celebrated Michael J. Abramowitz, who is stepping down as Freedom House’s president after seven years of service to lead Voice of America.
2023 Annual Awards
At Freedom House's annual awards program in May 2023, Vladimir Kara-Murza and the women of Iran received 2023 Freedom Awards. The Hon. Michael A. McCarthy received the 2023 Mark Palmer Prize.
Signature Event Series: Mark Palmer Forum
One of Freedom House's signature annual events includes the Mark Palmer Forum for Advancing Democracy. The Mark Palmer Forum for the Advancement of Democracy honors the legacy of Ambassador Mark Palmer, long-time Freedom House trustee and vice chairman.
Reimagining American Democracy
Freedom House, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the George W. Bush Institute, and Issue One for partnered on a discussion series on the future and promise of American democracy. The program featured journalist-led conversations with the thinkers, activists, policymakers, and organizations envisioning what a more vibrant and inclusive democracy in America could look like - and what it will take to get there.
Freedom House’s work was severely impacted by the US freeze on foreign aid earlier this year. Thanks to supporters like you, our efforts to expand and defend freedom continue. We need your support today to help sustain our work in 2026 and beyond. Donate now.