Activists Disrupt Former German Foreign Minister's Award Address at Uppsala University

Former German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock experienced multiple disruptions during her award address at Uppsala University, where she appeared as the recipient of the 2026 Dag Hammarskjold Medal. The award, presented by the Dag Hammarskjold Foundation, honours individuals recognized for contributions to a peaceful, just, and environmentally sustainable world through politics or research.

Activists opposed to the selection organized protests on campus, stating they entered the venue in separate groups and interrupted the seminar four times. According to the demonstrators, the decision to honour Baerbock conflicted with the German government's diplomatic and military policies, citing past arms exports and official statements regarding international conflicts.

The protesting group criticized Baerbock's stance on international law and her support for Israel's security during her tenure as foreign minister. They argued that her public positions contradicted the stated criteria of the medal, which highlights humanism, compassion, and a commitment to international solidarity.

During the seminar, Baerbock attempted to address the initial interruption by discussing a rocket incident, but protesters stated their objections focused on broader geopolitical policies and violations of international law. The demonstrators further criticized Uppsala University for co-organising the event, contrasting the institution's handling of current partnerships with its previous actions regarding Russian academic institutions.

Baerbock has subsequently assumed the role of president of the United Nations General Assembly. Protesters stated they chose to disrupt the academic lecture because they believed conventional methods of opposition regarding the conflict in Gaza had yielded no institutional response from higher education authorities.