The online vote is open to young people aged 15 to 25 from all over the world from March 20 to April 30, to elect the winner of their choice among the 3 nominees for the 2025 Freedom Prize: Gisèle Pélicot, Melati Wijsen, WAPA (War Affected People's Association).
An international jury of 24 young people, chaired by Ouissem Belgacem, a former professional footballer turned writer, screenwriter, and committed speaker, selected from over 400 applications:
Gisèle PELICOT - Against the trivialization of rape and sexual violence
To shift the shame, Gisèle Pélicot refused a closed-door trial, thereby encouraging victims to exercise their rights of defense. Her story has highlighted the trivialisation of rape and chemical submission. By renouncing anonymity, she has not only given a voice to victims of sexual violence but also drawn attention to rape culture and systematic abuse.
Her courage and determination have inspired many people to fight for their rights and denounce injustices. Through her actions, Gisèle Pélicot contributes to changing the perception of victims and promoting the right to dignity and the fight against sexual violence.
Melati WISJEN - For the protection of the environment
Melati Wijsen is an Indonesian activist renowned for her fight against plastic pollution. At just 12 years old, she co-founded the initiative Bye Bye Plastic Bags with her sister Isabel, aiming to reduce the use of plastic bags in Bali. Their campaign gained notoriety through clean-up actions, presentations, and a petition that gathered 100,000 signatures.
Melati also founded YOUTHTOPIA, a youth empowerment platform, and has spoken on international stages such as TED and the World Economic Forum. In 2021, she was the subject of the documentary Bigger Than Us, which was presented at the Cannes Film Festival.
She continues to promote environmental initiatives and inspire young people to become agents of change.
WAPA - Against the use of children in armed conflicts
WAPA (War Affected People's Association) fights against the use of children in armed conflicts and supports their reintegration into stronger communities. WAPA works with local partners in post-conflict states to fund reintegration programs.
The association also conducts awareness and advocacy campaigns to end the recruitment of child soldiers. Thanks to its efforts, WAPA has enabled many children to regain a normal life and rebuild themselves after the traumas related to armed conflicts.
The 2025 Freedom Prize will be awarded during a ceremony on June 3 at the Zénith de Caen. The winner will receive a trophy created by Norman high schools and a cheque for 25,000 euros to support their cause.
