Let's Celebrate the Goethe-Medal Winners: Osman Kavala, Li Yuan, and David Van Reybrouck
Awarded to Detained Advocate of Turkish Culture - Honor granted to culturally-committed Turks serving prison sentences
This August, the Goethe-Institut is presenting the famous Goethe-Medal in Weimar to three remarkable individuals: Osman Kavala, Li Yuan, and David Van Reybrouck. Despite facing numerous challenges, these quiet revolutionaries are reshaping our world in their unique ways.
Osman's Unwavering Commitment
Osman Kavala, a Turkish philanthropist, has been an imprisoned yet influential figure in Turkey since 2017. Even behind bars, Osman continues to strive for peace and reconciliation in his region. The Goethe-Institut honors his efforts, emphasizing the significance of these values in our current world under pressure.
Osman laid the foundation for Anadolu Kültür, an organization that strengthens human rights, art, and culture in Istanbul. His commendable work, despite facing political scrutiny and a life sentence in 2022, speaks volumes about his dedication to democratic values.
Li Yuan's Influence on German Education in China
Li Yuan, a Chinese linguist, has made an impact on German language education in her home country. The committee recognized her extensive influence on the curriculum and teaching practice at Chinese schools and universities.
David Van Reybrouck's Stories of the Unheard
David Van Reybrouck, a Belgian author, is known for his stories dedicated to shedding light on perspectives overlooked in the West's history. He uses the method of oral history, traveling to remote corners of the world to capture and share untold stories.
The Goethe-Medal will be bestowed upon these inspiring figures on August 28, the birthday of the esteemed poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) - a perfect occasion to honor their immeasurable contributions to cultural understanding and peace.
- Osman Kavala
- Li Yuan
- David Van Reybrouck
- Goethe-Institut
- Turkey
- Federal Republic of Germany
- Berlin
- Weimar
- Istanbul
- Democracy
- Gesche Joost
- The Goethe-Institut, based in Berlin and Weimar, Germany, is set to honor Osman Kavala, Li Yuan, and David Van Reybrouck with the Goethe-Medal in August 2022.
- Osman Kavala, a Turkish philanthropist imprisoned since 2017, will receive recognition for his unwavering commitment to peace and reconciliation, particularly through his work with Anadolu Kültür in Istanbul.
- Li Yuan, a Chinese linguist, has made significant contributions to German language education in her home country, earning her the Goethe-Medal for her extensive influence on the curriculum and teaching practices at Chinese schools and universities.
- David Van Reybrouck, a Belgian author, will be recipients of the Goethe-Medal for his stories that shine a light on overlooked perspectives in Western history, using oral history to capture and share untold stories from around the world.
- The Goethe-Medal ceremony will take place on August 28, the birthday of the esteemed poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, celebrating the immeasurable contributions of these three individuals to cultural understanding and peace, particularly in regions affected by war-and-conflicts and politics.
