It was in early November that the Swedish Freedom of Expression Organization announced that the 2019 Tucholsky Prize, which is awarded each year to a persecuted, threatened or fugitive writer or publicist, goes to the imprisoned author and publisher Gui Minhai, something the Cultural News has previously reported.

"A mockery of freedom of speech"

Swedish PEN's award has made the Chinese embassy look responsive. In a written statement published on the embassy's website, they demand that Swedish PEN withdraw the prize and describe Gui Minhai as a criminal and a "liar and rumor spreader". According to the embassy, ​​Svenska PEN's choice of award winners is "a mockery of freedom of expression". They also write that the organization "will suffer the consequences of its own actions".

Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde (S) is critical of the embassy's statement.

- Of course, these are serious statements. The Foreign Ministry has stated to the embassy that freedom of speech prevails in Sweden, says Foreign Minister Ann Linde, to Expressen.

Swedish-Chinese author Gui Minhai was detained in 2015 and has since been imprisoned in China without trial or judgment. No one knows for certain what he is accused of, but the Chinese authorities have admitted that he is "subject to coercive measures". China's actions have been condemned worldwide.

Praised for his publicist activities

Gui Minhai was awarded the Freedom of Expression Award for his publicist activities: “He wrote himself and published others. A work in the service of freedom of expression. For this, Gui Minhai was imprisoned. The award is given to his tireless work for the free word, in support of his release and the right to resume his publicist activities. ”Writes the Swedish PEN jury in its justification.

The cultural news is seeking Swedish PEN and Minister of Culture and Democracy Amanda Lind (MP) for a comment.