Fred Nyberg receives the Scandinavian Human Dignity Award

After four decades as the voice of science in the often emotionally driven debate on drugs and addiction, Fred Nyberg, Professor emeritus and initiator of U-FOLD, is a household name and in demand far beyond Sweden's borders. Fred is now awarded the international human rights prize Scandinavian Human Dignity Award, which is presented annually by the Scandinavian Human Rights Lawyers to a person or an organization that has made a particularly honorable contribution to promote human rights, stemming from the inherent value of every human being and essential for every person’s development and freedom.

“In both U-FOLD and previous assignments, I have devoted great effort to science outreach and to conveying evidence-based knowledge. Through my involvements in the National Centre for Knowledge on Men's Violence Against Women and the Scientific Council of The Swedish Prison and Probation Service, I have met many people who, in their work to help vulnerable people, have been receptive to science, and to be awarded this prize is a recognition that I really take to heart,” says Fred Nyberg.

The motivation states that Fred Nyberg receives the prize for his “outstanding contributions as the scientific voice in the debate about drugs and addiction. His long-term collaboration with the Human Rights Lawyers has been crucial in running important seminars and EU projects to stop violence and promote human rights. Fred Nyberg is a familiar name far beyond the framework of academia. As a vivid public educator and lecturer, he has visited most Swedish communities. He is passionate about helping young people find other stimuli than drugs and for science and empathy to go hand in hand to help people in vulnerable situations. His tireless work and his willingness to share his knowledge make him a worthy winner of this year's award.”

"As an advisor to five governments, through my involvement in Stockholm-12 and as chair of the International Narcotics Research Conference, I have interacted with people from all parts of our field and have taken to heart the importance of participating in fruitful conversations. This is something I continue to do, not least within the framework of U-FOLD where we are currently preparing our program for this summer's Almedalen Week," says Fred Nyberg.

Fred Nyberg accepted the Award on Thursday 27 March at the seminar Så motverkar vi våldet och skapar ett tryggare samhälle at Uppsalas Katedralkafé.

text: Magnus Alsne, photo: Stewen Quigley a o