Organizer & Producer
Sports & Dictators Receptions
Two invite-only Oslo Freedom Forum receptions introducing HRF's Sports & Dictators initiative to industry leaders, journalists, and human rights activists — marking the debut of Power Plays and the first public preview of Shadow Play.
- attendees
- 160+
- invite-only receptions
- 2
- product launches
- 2
Overview
HRF's Sports & Dictators program had long explored the intersection of sports, authoritarianism, and human rights through research, journalism, and advocacy, but its work remained largely within a niche audience.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching and global scrutiny of governance in sport intensifying, we identified an opportunity to elevate the program from a research initiative into a broader cultural conversation. The goal wasn't simply to launch new projects; it was to reposition sports as a powerful entry point for understanding authoritarian influence.
To launch this next chapter, we hosted two invite-only receptions during the Oslo Freedom Forum introducing Power Plays and previewing Shadow Play, creating a strategic platform for HRF's Sports & Dictators program to engage journalists, industry leaders, and global conference attendees.
Program
- Opening Remarks
- Karim Zidan, HRF Sports & Dictators Program Lead
- Featured Conversation
- John Gould, Editor-in-Chief of The Signal, and Dr. Zohreh Abdollakhani, Iranian ice climbing champion and Chair of Human Rights for Sport, on the intersection of sport, authoritarianism, and human rights.
Details
Location: Oslo, Norway · Venues: Eero & Vinland Brasserie · Attendance: 160+
Reception Photos
atmosphere
